6 days ago
Why Cross-Sector Collaboration Is Key To Solving Societal Challenges
Irma Becerra is president of Marymount University, a comprehensive doctoral-granting university known for its innovative curriculum.
Today's societal challenges are increasingly complex. From workforce development and public health to the ethical deployment of artificial intelligence, no single sector has all the answers. That is why I believe collaboration between higher education, business and government is more critical than ever. When these sectors join forces, they can combine their strengths and resources to drive innovation and make a meaningful impact.
As a university president, I have seen firsthand the power these partnerships can have. Higher education institutions prepare the next generation of workers and leaders while also serving as catalysts for research, discovery and social progress. But to fully realize our potential, colleges and universities must closely collaborate with industry and public agencies.
How Corporate Partnerships Can Advance Shared Goals
Corporate partnerships can help align academic programming with the evolving needs of the workforce. These collaborations ensure students graduate with the practical skills, technological literacy and workplace readiness that employers seek. At our university, corporate partners include organizations in banking, healthcare and IT, among others. These companies engage with the university community by supporting scholarships and student success initiatives, hosting internships and recruiting directly from campus and offering guest lectures, mentoring and professional development. These efforts enhance the student experience while also building a robust talent pipeline that serves employers and boosts regional economies.
Other institutions are exploring the advantages of corporate partnerships as well. For example, a small college in Massachusetts launched a customized Corporate Certificate in Advanced Management for a cohort of Pfizer colleagues. The program features electives tailored to Pfizer's strategic priorities and is delivered entirely online, demonstrating the growing demand for accessible, flexible, career-aligned learning opportunities.
As AI continues to disrupt industries, corporate collaboration with higher education is even more important. Businesses will increasingly rely on universities to help retrain their workforces, advise on ethical use and enhance the skills and solutions needed to remain competitive in the digital economy. My colleagues in higher ed would be wise to tailor partnerships to meet this growing demand.
How Government Support Can Advance Research
Just as businesses bring practical insight to higher education, government funding can power the discovery and research that fuels innovation. Grants from agencies like the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and the National Security Agency can enable universities to explore and apply new ideas that improve lives.
Harvard University, for instance, previously received federal grants to support research on cancer, tuberculosis, the effects of environmental pollution and much more. This work has the potential to save lives and shape public policy. At my university, we were one of only four institutions nationwide selected by the NSA to build and operate a cybersecurity clinic through a $1.5 million grant. This effort helps strengthen the digital defenses of small businesses and nonprofits in the Washington, D.C., region, helping prevent, detect and respond to cyber threats.
These partnerships showcase the incredible impact of government investment in higher education. Rather than scaling back, I believe we must strengthen public support for university-based research because these investments demonstrate a commitment to creating a smarter, healthier and more resilient society. For example, universities and government agencies could jointly launch PR campaigns to share findings and work with news outlets, as well as publish newsletters and reports on the results and impact of research to provide the public with greater understanding and transparency. Another strategy is engaging alumni as advocates within their companies to promote research collaborations that could translate or apply to their organizations. Finally, universities and communities can collaborate together in community-based research by jointly addressing community needs and promote positive social change.
A Shared Responsibility, A Shared Future
Business, higher education and government each play unique roles in shaping our communities and driving societal progress. But when these sectors work in silos, opportunities for synergy are lost. The challenges we face today and tomorrow require creativity and collaboration. By aligning our goals and co-developing solutions, we can prepare future generations for success, unlock discoveries and create more equitable and thriving communities.
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