Liberty University in the Trump Era

Responding to changing demographics, beliefs, and norms, US religious colleges must reflect what's popular and profitable: Christian evangelism, prosperity theology, contemporary technology, and international outreach. Like other areas of higher education, Christian higher education must focus on the realities of revenues, expenses, and politics, as well as religious dogma.  

While a number of Christian colleges and seminaries close each year, and many more face lower enrollment and financial woes, one conservative Christian university stands out for robust enrollment, stellar finances, and political pull: Liberty University. There are other older schools, particularly Catholic schools with more wealth and prestige, but that's changing. And it could be argued that those schools are religious in a historical sense rather than a contemporary sense.    

Two Liberties

Liberty University is an educational behemoth, and has the advantage of being a nonprofit school that uses proprietary marketing strategies. The brick-and-mortar school, with an enrollment of less than 20,000 students, is predominantly straight, white, and middle-class. The school also has a strict honor code called the Liberty Way, which prohibits activity that may be counter to conservative Christian beliefs.

The growing campus includes a successful law school that serves as a pipeline to Christian businesses and conservative government. The Jesse Helms School of Government and the ban of a Young Democrats club reflect its conservative principles. Liberty also houses the Center for Creation Studies and Creation Hall, with a museum to promote a literal interpretation of the Christian Bible, to include the stories of God and the beginning of time, Adam and Eve, Noah and the Ark, and Moses and the Ten Commandments. 

Liberty University Online (LUO), an international Christian robocollege with about 100,000 students, is more diverse in terms of age, race/ethnicity, nationality, and social class. The online school is thriving financially, and excess funds from the operation help fund the university's growing infrastructure, amenities, and institutional wealth. Liberty spends millions on marketing and advertising online, using its campus as a backdrop. And those efforts result in manifold profits.  

Liberty History

Liberty University was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr., a visionary in Christian marketing and promotion, who used technology the technology of the time--television--to gain adherents and funders. Fawell's vision was not to create a new seminary, but to educate evangelical Christians to be part of the fabric of professional society, as lawyers, doctors, teachers, and engineers.

Responding to the political and cultural winds, Falwell Sr. moved away from his segregationist roots as he built his church Liberty University. It was not easy going for Liberty in the early years, which had to rely on controversial supporters. The minister also used the abortion question, the homosexual question, and conservative Christian evangelism in Latin America and Africa to energize his flock and to create important political alliances during the Ronald Reagan era. Information about those years are available at the Jerry Falwell Library Archives.

During the Reagan era and beyond, Falwell's idea of a Moral Majority proposed that Church and State should not be divided, and those thoughts of a strong Christian theocracy have spread for more than four decades. 

In March 2016, Jerry Falwell Jr. referred to presidential candidate Donald Trump as America's King David. And under the first Trump Administration, the school gained favor from the President. 

Under Donald Trump's second term, Liberty University should be expecting to get closer to that goal of a Christian theocracy. For the moment, LU has the political power and the economic power that few other schools have to enjoy.

Related links:

Jerry Falwell Library Digital Archives 

Dozens of Religious Schools Under Department of Education Heightened Cash Monitoring 

Liberty University fined record $14 million for violating campus safety law (Washington Post) 

How Liberty University Built a Billion Dollar Empire Online (NY Times) 

Campus Protests, Campus Safety, and the Student Imagination

According to the LA Times, students at Cal Berkeley, San Jose State, San Francisco State, and the University of San Francisco plan to hold coordinated protests on their campuses tomorrow. These actions are a continuation of this year's earlier protests against Israel's atrocities against Palestinians in Gaza--which have been backed by the United States, through arms deals and federal funding.

With the US-backed genocide expanding to the West Bank and Southern Lebanon, there will certainly be student resistance despite administrative and police efforts to make campus occupations and other forms of protest (even free speech and freedom of assembly) difficult.

The greatest threat so far from these protests has been to the reputations of elite universities and their endowments, rather than to campus safety. And the greatest perceived threat to administrators is that students and their allies have the imagination to resist in novel ways--without violence.   

Students have already gained partial victories with a handful of universities which have offered to review investment strategies complicit with genocide. These progressive schools include Brown University and San Francisco State. At the University of Michigan, pro-Palestinian students organized as the Shut it Down Party have won student elections.       

Coordinated and Secret Crackdowns

The crackdown measures that schools have already made to reduce free speech and other freedoms, and to stoke fear, are too numerous to list. Some of these measures, like increased surveillance are not even known by students, faculty, staff, and community folks. Just understanding that secret mass surveillance is possible helps administrators who want to quell good trouble. 

What are the real threats to campus safety? 

We hope these protests (and any other actions) will be nonviolent and have published a list of nonviolent methods for resistance as a starting point for discussion. Violence is not a good excuse even in crackdowns of this type, and it's a losing strategy for all sides--other than the right wing--who want chaos and hope to bait others. It takes great planning, discipline, and strategy not to take the bait. At the same time, we hope campus administrators will take the problems of sexual assault, hate crimes and other forms of violence, as well as the threats of mass shootings, more seriously than they have.

Related links: 

Democratic Protests on Campus: Modeling the Better World We Seek (Annelise Orleck)

Methods of Student Nonviolent Resistance

Wikipedia Community Documents Pro-Palestinian Protests on University and College Campuses

Dangerous Spaces: Sexual Assault and Other Forms of Violence On and Off Campus

One Fascism or Two?: The Reemergence of "Fascism(s)" in US Higher Education

A People's History of Higher Education in the US?

Letter to an incoming freshman

Letter to an incoming freshman

Dear Freshman,

Congratulations on this exciting new chapter! College is a time of immense growth, discovery, and opportunity. Done right, there will be uncertainty, challenges, long hours of study, and difficult decisions to make for your future self. 

Who am I? Where am I going? Why am I here? 

College is a transformative experience where you’ll discover more about yourself than ever before. It’s essential to examine and understand your identity, values, and goals. Reflect on your upbringing, your family’s influence, and the experiences that have shaped who you are today. This self-awareness will guide you as you explore new academic interests, build lasting friendships, and determine your career path. Seek guidance when needed, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

 

 

Utilize the Campus Services You Pay For

College campuses offer resources to support your academic and personal success. Take advantage of services like tutoring, academic advising, and counseling. These professionals are here to help you overcome challenges, reach your goals, and make the most of your college experience. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Explore the various campus organizations and clubs that align with your interests to build a supportive community and develop new skills.

Seek Out the Best Teachers

The best teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors and guides. They inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and create a supportive learning environment. These individuals go above and beyond to help students reach their full potential. They possess a passion for their subject matter that is contagious, and they have a genuine care for their students' well-being. Seek out professors who challenge you intellectually, encourage your creativity, and provide constructive feedback. Building strong relationships with your professors can significantly enhance your college experience.   

Solidarity and Belonging

College is filled with diversity and complexity. Embrace this diversity as a chance to learn and grow. Seek out communities where you feel a sense of belonging, whether it's based on shared interests, cultural heritage, or academic pursuits. Remember, your voice matters, and your experiences are valuable. By connecting with others, you’ll build a strong support network that will sustain you through your college years and beyond.

Avoid Peer Pressure

College is a time for exploration and new friendships, but it’s also important to stay true to yourself. Peer pressure can be intense, but remember that you have the power to make your own choices. Surround yourself with supportive friends who encourage your goals. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to say no. Your well-being is paramount, and it’s okay to prioritize your values over fitting in. Trust your instincts and seek support from trusted mentors or faculty members if needed.

Cultural Competence

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, it’s crucial to develop cultural competence. Understanding and appreciating different cultures is essential for personal growth and success. Cultivating cultural competence means being open-minded, respectful, and empathetic towards individuals from various backgrounds. It involves learning about different customs, traditions, and perspectives, and challenging your own biases. By embracing diversity, you’ll enrich your college experience, build stronger relationships, and become a more well-rounded individual.

Navigating Challenges

It's natural to feel a sense of alienation at times, especially when facing new environments and academic pressures. Know that these feelings are temporary, and you will find your place. Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles. Challenges are opportunities for growth, and they will shape you into a stronger and more capable individual. Cultivate a growth mindset, believing in your ability to learn and improve.

Financial Reality and Planning

Let's address the elephant in the room: student loan debt. It's a significant challenge facing many graduates. While education is an investment in your future, it's crucial to approach it with financial prudence. Explore scholarship opportunities, work-study programs, and part-time jobs to minimize your reliance on loans. Create a budget, track your expenses, and understand the terms of your loans. Your future self will thank you for being proactive about your finances.

Additionally, the job market can be competitive, and underemployment is a reality for many recent graduates. While college provides a strong foundation, it’s essential to develop practical skills and experience through internships, co-ops, and extracurricular activities. Network with professionals in your field, and be prepared to adapt your career goals as needed.

Safety and Well-being

College can be an exhilarating time, but it's important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Alcohol and drug abuse can have severe consequences, including academic failure, impaired judgment, and increased risk of sexual assault. It's crucial to consume alcohol responsibly (or not at all) and to avoid drugs altogether.

Sexual assault is a serious issue on college campuses. Learn about consent, bystander intervention, and campus resources. Trust your instincts, and never hesitate to seek help if you feel unsafe.

Creating a Meaningful Experience

College is more than just academics. Explore your passions, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone. When you are stable academically, engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer, and connect with your community. These experiences will enrich your life and help you discover your purpose.

Justice, Equity, and Fairness

College is a place to question, challenge, and advocate for what you believe in. Be informed about social issues and engage in thoughtful conversations. Your voice has the power to create positive change. Remember, justice, equity, and fairness are fundamental to a thriving society. Be an advocate for yourself and others, and strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world.

Taking Care of Yourself

Prioritize your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and find ways to manage stress productively. Don’t hesitate to seek support from campus counseling services or other resources. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's essential for your success and well-being.

You are capable of achieving great things. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and never stop learning. Your future self is counting on you!

With support, determination, careful planning, and a strong commitment to safety, you can navigate the complexities of college life and emerge as a well-rounded, resilient individual.  And don't forget to write back. 

Sincerely, The Higher Education Inquirer

We believe in your potential.