In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, private liberal arts colleges are at a crossroads. The Post-Pandemic Liberal Arts College: A Manifesto for Reinvention, written by seasoned educators Steven Volk and Beth Benedix, serves as a powerful and compelling call to action for these institutions. This book sheds light on the pressing need for transformation within the landscape of higher education, particularly for small liberal arts colleges that have struggled for decades.

The pandemic has not only exposed existing vulnerabilities but has also amplified the challenges faced by these colleges. Increasing tuition fees that outpace family incomes, the rise of rankings that pit institutions against one another, and a shift towards pre-professionalism are just a few of the issues that have led to a widening gap between the founding missions of these colleges and their current practices.

In their manifesto, Volk and Benedix outline a vision for reinvention that focuses on shedding exclusivity, reducing costs, and facilitating genuine social mobility. They argue that collaboration among institutions can lead to a more equitable and accessible higher education system. By embracing these principles, small liberal arts colleges could not only survive the current crisis but thrive, returning to their roots of offering transformative education.

This book is essential reading for educators, students, parents, and anyone invested in the future of higher education. It provides a roadmap for how small liberal arts colleges can reclaim their purpose and impact in a rapidly changing world.

In conclusion, The Post-Pandemic Liberal Arts College is not just a book; it is a manifesto that urges institutions to reflect on their past, acknowledge their present challenges, and take bold steps towards a more inclusive future. The authors’ insights are invaluable for anyone seeking to understand the future of liberal arts education in America.