100th Episode: The Importance of Place in U.S. Higher Ed with Michael Crow

If you follow the evolution of American education, you are surely aware of Arizona State University's transformation under the leadership of Michael Crow. In a little over two decades, Crow has grown ASU into one of the largest and most influential public universities, in terms of overall enrollment, research expenditures, and the adoption of new technologies. In doing so, he has become an internationally recognized voice in the future of higher education at large. Built on a precise set of guiding principles outlined in his inaugural address, the university consistently garners accolades for community and global impact, environmental sustainability, and graduate employability.  

In a field where peer institutions have traditionally competed based on exclusivity, ASU's success is derived from its 2014 Charter, which declared that this university would be "measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed." Crow’s New American University model defies the norms of rising tuition, low acceptance rates and inflexible learning pathways, with an aim to prioritize meaningful change in the lives of more students and the communities which it serves.   

Ten Across, of course, is itself responsive to ASU's Charter and its design aspirations, particularly its emphasis on place. As a unique subset of ASU, Ten Across strives to deliver outsized impact through intentional networks, education, and media that address high-stakes issues experienced throughout the I-10 region—many of which are exacerbated by climate change.  

Listen in as Michael Crow explains why Arizona was the place he chose for the development of this highly inclusive and innovative model of higher education, and the efforts that have gone into transforming ASU from a small state college into a global humanitarian and technological engine generating solutions to some of our most difficult challenges.  

Related articles and resources:  

Michael Crow explains the “invisible hand” of university research in conversation with Rice University President Reginald DesRoches  

“ASU boosts the economic vitality of Arizona” (ASU News, January 2025)  

 “Why Phoenix is the ‘Most American City’ with George Packer” (Ten Across Conversations, August 2024)  

“’Evolve Or Die’ —Michael Crow’s Challenge to U.S. Higher Education” (Forbes, May 2025)  

“Democrats need a leader like ASU President Michael Crow to rescue them” (Arizona Republic, January 2025)  

Credits:  

Host: Duke Reiter  

Producer and editor: Taylor Griffith  

Music by: Helmut Schenker and Pearce Roswell  

Research and support provided: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler