**Reclaiming Higher Education: Dr. Kent Engel’s Vision for a College Without Communism**
In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape, a refreshing perspective emerges from Dr. Kent Engel, the president of Southeastern University in Florida. His latest book, “College Without Communism,” seeks to bridge the divide between traditional values and modern education, which has been increasingly overshadowed by radical ideologies. With an emphasis on restoring the original purpose of higher education—spiritual and moral development—Dr. Engel aims to help students uncover their divine design while navigating the complex waters of contemporary academia.
Dr. Engel passionately argues that the traditional intent of higher education is to foster personal growth, promote character development, and integrate faith with learning. He believes that students are not just learners but potential solutions to the world’s challenges. Unfortunately, many colleges, especially those in the Ivy League, have drifted away from these foundational principles. Instead of nurturing truth and independent thought, they have shifted towards ideology and indoctrination. The president is determined to steer education back to its roots, where it is a stewardship for students’ intellectual, spiritual, and personal development.
The crux of Dr. Engel’s argument lies in the pervasive influence of ideologies reminiscent of communism, which have infiltrated numerous colleges and universities. Students today may find themselves surrounded by teachings that present truth as relative, disparage patriotism, and render moral values flexible and subjective. This shift leads to a generation ill-equipped to engage in meaningful discourse or recognize the principles of character and virtue. Dr. Engel points out that the president of Harvard has even admitted to the pitfalls of allowing political bias to seep into classroom instruction, prompting a call for academic reform.
Beyond merely criticizing the current state of higher education, Dr. Engel outlines actionable steps to reclaim the narrative. He stresses the importance of access, affordability, and experiential education—key issues faced by students today. By providing practical educational programs attuned to workforce needs and enhancing delivery methods, Southeastern University is paving the way for a model that combines traditional campus experiences with modern, flexible learning opportunities. This balance is essential for fostering community and mutual growth among students, which Dr. Engel sees as essential to their development.
Dr. Engel’s commitment to education extends beyond traditional classroom settings. The university partners with local churches, recognizing their role in shaping culture and providing students with the foundational faith-based support they need as they pursue their studies. This innovative approach not only enhances accessibility but also drives down costs. With many college students burdened by debt, Dr. Engel’s efforts to establish community-based campuses demonstrate a path toward affordable education, steering clear of what he aptly refers to as the “scam” of exorbitant tuition and mounting financial obligations.
As Dr. Engel’s work continues to gain traction, the dialogue surrounding higher education is shifting. Through “College Without Communism,” he inspires a fresh vision for the future—a generation of students who are not just well-educated but also well-grounded in truth and character. With a blend of faith, practical learning, and community engagement, Dr. Engel and his team at Southeastern University are embarking on a mission to restore the sanctity of higher education. It’s a promising endeavor that may not only reshape the future of academic institutions but also cultivate students who are equipped to make a positive, lasting impact on the world.
