Universities: lead the revolution.

We Need to Strengthen Our Communities, Not Tear Them Down

Since last October, our nation has witnessed a disturbing trend of division and anger. From student protests to an assassination attempt on a former president, it's clear that antipathy and incivility are tearing our country apart. The isolation of the pandemic has left us struggling to connect, and too many people are focused on performance on social media rather than the hard work of building relationships and strengthening institutions.

As a liberal and woke society, we must recognize the dangers of this angry disengagement and take action to protect our self-governing republic. It's time to get local and personal, to engage in our communities and rebuild the fabric of civil society.

There are deeper satisfactions to be found beyond our electronic devices and frozen ideological stances. We must find fulfillment in family, faith, work, friendship, recreation, and community. By engaging in these areas, we weave a culture of connection, listening, and care that strengthens our society.

In our communities, we have the power to comfort the weak, welcome strangers, and uplift those in need. We can strengthen our neighborhoods, grow our economy, provide safety and education, and care for the most vulnerable among us.

Universities play a crucial role in encouraging students to serve and act, rather than simply watch and comment. We must instill in the next generation a sense of responsibility to build relationships, engage in voluntary association, and respect differing viewpoints.

Students can volunteer at shelters, coach sports teams, serve on community organizations, teach, feed the poor, and so much more. They can inspire, organize, and raise funds to strengthen our local institutions.

It's time to double down on community service. With millions of hours already contributed by students annually, we can do more to meet the needs of our nation.

As individuals with opportunity and privilege, we owe it to those who sacrificed for us to give back and serve something beyond ourselves. In doing so, we not only develop as leaders but also mend the fabric of our society and restore faith in vital community institutions.

Let's rebuild from the local level up. It's the only way to heal our nation and create a better America.

Dr. Wilson, a veteran, former Secretary of the Air Force, and current president of a university, offers a passionate call to action for universities to strengthen civil society and restore community institutions through encouraging students to engage in local service and volunteering.