There will always be gaps between the outputs of formal education and the changing needs of a society. While academic degrees are still important, they are no longer sufficient. Beyond coursework and knowledge, young people need specialized skills, competencies and experiences that align with emerging needs and opportunities. Not surprisingly, internships, mentored research, and other... Continue Reading →
In 2015 I began co-leading our study abroad trip to Tanzania, determined to make some tangible impact through our engagement. I loaded my bags with donations and gifts- but that was the easy part. It was the promise of collaboration that beckoned my interest. The idea that as a university, we had valuable resources to... Continue Reading →
As I talk with women from diverse backgrounds and professions, the notion of “the weeds” seems to resonate universally. The weeds are a highly emotional place, a vast and interconnected tangle of thoughts, memories, and experiences. Charged with emotion and fear, the weeds are highly sensitive. Once triggered, they ricochet us through patterns and responses,... Continue Reading →
In this video I share a process for resetting your community development work that can be used when you are feeling stuck or out of alignment. By using the modeling framework described in my previous video, I discuss 5 design elements that will allow you to identify changes or challenges and make the necessary adjustments... Continue Reading →
As I meet with universities and higher education systems that are making bold commitments to sustainable development, I am both excited and concerned. On one hand, the potential is palpable- the opportunity to mobilize valuable resources: talent, expertise, research and innovation, to address our most pressing needs and challenges. But investments alone are not enough.... Continue Reading →
Photo by Doug Levere I recently worked with a group of Engineering students designing an eco-flush latrine for a community in rural Tanzania through a yearlong intramural project. Through background readings and Zoom conversations, they learned about health and education problems associated with poor sanitation. Namely, due to lack of functioning latrines in schools and... Continue Reading →
When you begin to view the world through the lens of meaningful projects, amazing things start to happen.
This summer is testing many things, including the potential of virtual projects.
Because failure can be so painful and emotionally triggering, we distance ourselves at all cost, finding ways to deflect, blame, or avoid. But in doing so, we miss out on one of the most powerful catalysts for professional and personal growth. To be clear, not all failures are best failures. Most are uninteresting, simply not... Continue Reading →
Mara B. Huber, PhD 