Introducing The Trust Agenda: A Framework for Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education

New Report Focuses on Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education

Public confidence in higher education has declined over the past decade, contributing to growing scrutiny of colleges and universities and increasing challenges to teaching, learning, and higher education’s broader public purposes. 

At the same time, institutions are navigating political polarization, changing public expectations, and mounting pressure to demonstrate relevance, value, and impact to the communities they serve. 

In response, AAC&U’s Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education initiative has developed a new framework to help colleges and universities strengthen trust and trustworthiness while building stronger relationships with students, families, policymakers, employers, and local communities. 

Join AAC&U for a virtual event marking the release of The Trust Agenda: A Framework for Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education. Through a discussion of the report’s recommendations and the broader public trust landscape, speakers will explore how colleges and universities can respond proactively to growing public skepticism while strengthening relationships with the communities they serve.

What Can You Expect

Participants will explore recommendations from the publication, including strategies for

• accelerating institutional innovation;  
• strengthening community engagement;
• expanding opportunity and support for students;
• communicating higher education’s value more effectively; and  
• coordinating mission-centered responses to external pressures.

About the Report

The Trust Agenda: A Framework for Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education examines the growing challenges surrounding public trust in higher education and outlines a practical framework institutions can use to strengthen their trustworthiness, safeguard their autonomy, and deepen relationships with the students and communities they serve. This report will be released to the public during this event on June 16, 2026.