A wave of change is subtly reshaping the landscape of higher education, marked by a growing number of institutions achieving top academic ratings. Sixty-six schools recently ascended to an A+ designation, representing a significant 13.5% increase since the previous year – a quiet triumph amidst broader discussions.
Beyond the overall academic improvements, a focused shift in values is becoming apparent on several campuses. Individual schools are re-evaluating partnerships and resources, leading to notable adjustments in career services and internship opportunities.
Abilene Christian University, for instance, has removed Planned Parenthood from its list of approved internship placements. This decision reflects a deliberate alignment with specific ethical and moral considerations.
Similarly, Presbyterian College in South Carolina has removed Planned Parenthood from its “top nonprofit” list within its career guide. This adjustment signals a re-prioritization of organizations supported by the college’s career services department.
St. Mary's University of Minnesota followed suit, removing Planned Parenthood as a listed employer on its career services webpage. These individual actions, while seemingly small, collectively represent a discernible trend.
The driving force behind these changes, according to one observer, stems from a fundamental belief in the inherent value of every human life. The argument centers on the idea that supporting certain organizations can conflict with deeply held religious and ethical principles.
“Every human being is infinitely invaluable because we were created in [God's] own image,” one voice articulated. “To support what has become, sadly, the literal human sacrifice for self-ambition or career goals is to reject the truth of our creation.”
Requests for comment were directed to Duke University, Southern Methodist University, and Villanova University, but responses were not received. Their silence adds another layer to the unfolding narrative, leaving questions about their positions unanswered.
