The value of higher education has recently been the subject of intense debate, in our state and nationally. Much of the focus from the media and politicians has been on tracking economic outcomes for students who graduate from institutions across our country. While the main, and certainly a legitimate, focus has been on measuring the financial return on college investment, we sometimes lose sight of the fact that the value of a college education and its impact on student development for meaningful careers goes far beyond what a graduate earns post-degree.
There is perhaps no better example of this than the news, proudly posted on Rider University’s website yesterday, about Scott Ruskin, a Class of ’21 graduate, who – – on his first mission at the US Coast Guard – – saved over 100 precious lives during the tragic flood in central Texas over July 4th weekend. Scott’s bravery, courage, and competence were remarkable. Rider and all of New Jersey should be proud of one of their own. We at ICUNJ certainly are!
Graduates of the independent colleges and universities in New Jersey go on to careers in research, education, accounting, healthcare and the arts. For some, like Scott Ruskan, their career path includes service to country and others as members of the Armed Forces. Scott enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 2020 while attending Rider University. Click here for his story that has garnered national attention.
Independent college graduates demonstrate the knowledge and skills to take on challenges of all sizes. ICUNJ joins others across America in thanking Scott and the other crew members for their service.
