The Need for Renewal

The Fund for Academic Renewal (FAR) believes that our colleges and universities are too important to neglect. At their best, they prepare our young people to thrive in an increasingly complex world. They maintain America’s edge in the Information Age. They make it possible for the United States to compete in a dynamic, global economy. And they preserve and transmit the legacy of civilization’s greatest works and achievements.

Many who want to give to their institutions find themselves in a difficult position because of what is happening on campuses today. On one hand, they are deeply grateful for their own college experiences and want the next generation to have the same benefits they enjoyed. On the other hand, they are discouraged by the erosion of the academic quality that was so important for their personal development.

Today's emphasis on increasingly specialized research too often leads institutions to shortchange teaching and neglect undergraduates. Relativism and consumerism weaken academic standards and result in curricula that lack substance and coherence. Political correctness inhibits the free exchange of ideas and politicizes the classroom.

The Fund for Academic Renewal combats these forces by serving donors who wish to help colleges and universities through directed giving to improve courses, raise standards, and more vigorously support intellectual diversity and academic freedom.

And FAR’s involvement does not end when the gifts are given. We also monitor the implementation and effectiveness of the programs and activities we support, ensuring that donor intent is steadfastly respected and donors’ objectives are met or exceeded.