A series of op-eds written by UW–Madison’s Anthony Hernandez that speak to the value and importance of higher education and equitable access to learning have been published by The Fulcrum.
Hernandez is a teaching faculty member in the School of Education’s Department of Educational Policy Studies.
In explaining his desire to write the opinion pieces, Hernandez says: “In this moment of national upheaval, the very foundations of our society — higher education, equitable access to learning, and the core principles of democracy — are under direct attack. The urgency to defend these pillars has never been greater.”
Following are summaries of these op-eds:
Silent Onlookers: The Moral Failure to Protect Higher Education (March 21, 2025)
This piece draws on Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s The Butterfly and the Tank to highlight the moral failure of inaction in the face of the growing threats to American higher education. I argue that the defunding and politicization of universities mirror the destruction in Hemingway’s story, with public institutions representing fragile yet essential pillars of democracy, intellectual freedom, and opportunity. The biggest danger is not just aggressive attacks on education but the silence of those who fail to act. However, history shows that resistance and renewal are possible—through advocacy, collective action, and a commitment to education as a force for social good.
The Power of the Classroom: Why Diversity in Higher Education Matters (March 10, 2025)
This op-ed explains how diversity in higher education is essential for fostering opportunity, transformation, and belonging. The classroom serves as a crucial space for engaging with diverse perspectives, building community, and preparing students for leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. Representation enriches learning, enhances critical thinking, and ensures students are equipped to succeed in diverse professional environments. Higher education institutions have a responsibility to create inclusive spaces where all students, regardless of background, can access quality education. By prioritizing diversity and equity, universities uphold democratic values and cultivate the next generation of leaders.
Higher Education as a National Priority (March 1, 2025)
This article highlights how throughout U.S. history, presidents have shaped higher education by expanding access, funding research, and promoting workforce development. George Washington emphasized education’s role in national unity, while leaders like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson laid the foundation for state universities and liberal arts education. In the 20th century, presidents such as Eisenhower, Johnson, and Obama advanced financial aid, STEM education, and affordability initiatives. In contrast, the Trump administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education threatens student aid, civil rights protections, and workforce readiness. Instead, reforms should focus on expanding access, reducing student debt, and strengthening partnerships to ensure a strong and inclusive higher education system.