The Mission of Catholic Higher Education in the Age of the Corporatized University

Abstract

This chapter problematizes the contemporary context in which Catholic colleges and universities operate in the United States, namely, that of corporatized higher education. It describes the corporatization of the modern University and its negative consequences, locating this phenomenon within the ascendancy of neoliberalism. The author argues that the corporatization of the university has infected higher education with hyperindividualistic practices and models imported from the business world, essentially creating a clash of values with the Catholic social tradition. This phenomenon hinders the ability of Catholic institutions to fulfil their mission, which includes creating an environment imbued with values and principles of CST such as respect for human rights, solidarity, and justice. This final section of this chapter introduces the reader to the values and principles of CST, which should inform the policies and practices of Catholic institutions and counteract the values of corporatized education.