Two university presidents hosted a conversation at the Ion Feb. 24 to discuss how American research universities serve the public. Rice University President Reginald DesRoches and Michael Crow, president of Arizona State University (ASU), shared how research universities are engines of innovation, economic growth and social mobility while educating millions and driving scientific and technological discovery to help sustain U.S. global competitiveness.
To help drive home the message, the event was held at a site built specifically to turn that discovery into purposeful, private-sector ventures capable of benefiting society.
“(The Ion) is designed to fuel collaboration and drive innovation by bringing people together, such as yourselves, making it a perfect setting for tonight’s important discussion on innovation and the future of U.S. research universities,” said Paul Cherukuri, Rice’s chief innovation officer who leads the university’s engagement with the Ion.
The conversation could not be more urgent due to increasing public skepticism of the value of higher education, Cherukuri added.
“We believe that Rice’s position both in research and public service leadership is vital for ensuring science and innovation that serve our economy, our society and our democracy,” he said.
