Telling our stories about the value of higher education
Welcome
Discover the Next
The stories about institutions—about alumni accomplishments, vibrant student life, outcomes of research and discovery projects launched on campus, and the communities that have been strengthened—are vital to shining a light on the immense value that colleges and universities bring to our world.
Through Discover the Next, higher education institutions have a common way to build their voice and volume in showcasing the roles they play in educating and developing leaders, artists, scientists, teachers, healthcare professionals, visionaries, and other agents of change the world needs. When institutions speak through a branded, coordinated front, the impact grows.
Discover the Next, an initiative generously funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is a joint project of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), the American Council on Education (ACE), and the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB). This campaign will enable colleges and universities to share and reinforce among their audiences the many benefits that they have on individual lives, communities, and society as a whole.
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education is the global nonprofit association dedicated to educational advancement professionals—in alumni relations, communications, development, marketing, and advancement services—who share the goal of championing education to transform lives and society.
The American Council on Education is a membership organization that mobilizes the higher education community to shape effective public policy and foster innovative, high-quality practice. As the major coordinating body for the nation’s colleges and universities, our strength lies in our diverse membership of more than 1,700 colleges and universities, related associations, and other organizations in America and abroad. ACE is the only major higher education association to represent all types of U.S. accredited, degree-granting institutions: two-year and four-year, public and private.
The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges is the premier membership organization that strengthens higher education governing boards and the strategic roles they serve within their organizations. Through our vast library of resources, educational events, and consulting services, and with 100 years of experience, we empower 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations to navigate complex issues, implement leading practices, streamline operations, and govern with confidence. AGB is the trusted resource for board members, chief executives, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership.
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Perceptions About Higher Education
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The Time is Now to Discover the Next
Find stories of individual accomplishments that also collectively strengthen higher education as a sector. Personal stories and narratives of how institutions are making the world better, building trust and engagement—the cornerstone of what the Discover the Next campaign is all about. Take a look at recent examples:
We're Supported by Colleges and Universities Everywhere
Studies have shown that the value of higher education resonates most strongly within messages and stories that center on the four primary areas below. These four areas represent what college alumni, parents, prospective students, and others who pay attention to higher education see as the most tangible benefits of the college experience. Dig in to find story themes and examples in each area that can help you demonstrate the impact at your own institution.
Advances in medical science and research being done at our colleges and universities have improved the lives of millions of people.
A strong and growing economy and workforce is the direct result of the research and development work being done on campuses nationwide.
Whether it results in a certificate, a diploma, an advanced degree—or simply a new interest—time at a college or university is well spent.
Colleges and universities bring people together through sporting events, volunteer opportunities, and many other connection points.
Testimonials
What People Are Saying About Higher Education
Getting Involved Is Easier Than You Think
We are looking for the stories that are generated in lecture halls, research labs, and event venues on campuses, but often don’t receive the wide exposure they deserve. Discover the Next provides an accessible platform to house and organize those stories, and enable them to be shared and celebrated with a broader audience. Join this campaign, and your participation in utilizing these assets will amplify these messages and be added to the voices of other institutions that transform lives and society.
Download our toolkit to get started, and sign up to gain access to tools that will help you build your own institution’s story and build trust in higher education as a whole.
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THE TIME IS NOW TO DISCOVER THE NEXT
We can make a difference – together