Janet Napolitano on higher education and democracy

Janet Napolitano on higher education and democracy

From Democracy Works by Penn State McCourtney Institute for Democracy

March 16, 2026 · 35 min · Episode 299

About this episode

Janet Napolitano discusses the role of higher education in democracy and the responsibilities of universities in responding to power.

What is the role of higher education in a democracy? To what extent should American universities respond to the demands of those in power? Are we meeting this moment? As a former governor, cabinet secretary, and university president, Secretary Janet Napolitano is uniquely positioned to address these questions.

People in this episode

Guest: Janet Napolitano

Topics covered

  • higher education
  • democracy
  • American universities
  • government
  • public policy

Keywords

  • higher education
  • democracy
  • Janet Napolitano
  • American universities
  • public policy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Penn State McCourtney Institute for Democracy

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