Director's Welcome

In this time of political unrest, distrust, misinformation, and disinformation, it is more important than ever in our lifetime for individuals to have and/or develop critical thinking skills. A liberal arts education challenges us to think critically about the issues that surround us, encouraging us to consider conflicting positions and integrate multiple perspectives. This knowledge helps us to navigate challenges, appreciate multiple viewpoints, and become more flexible in our thinking. COPLAC members enhance this kind of educational experience through collaboration and interrelated knowledge.

COPLAC fosters a community where members can connect across institutions, disciplines, and regions. The organization brings together students, faculty, and staff through collaborative activities and specialized cohorts, allowing for rich, interdisciplinary dialogue. Whether through regional student research conferences, faculty development institutes, leadership cohorts, or the electronic student journal Metamorphosis, COPLAC provides platforms that encourage and celebrate the shared exploration of ideas.

COPLAC members share a collective sense of purpose and community. The organization’s dedication to curricular enhancement is supported by funding from prestigious foundations, enabling opportunities for learning and innovative teaching that strengthens the liberal arts experience. These initiatives create a dynamic, engaged network of like-minded institutions and individuals who work together to promote the value of a liberal arts education.

When you become part of COPLAC, you join a broader, vibrant, international network committed to making high-quality, public liberal arts education accessible and transformative. Through collaboration, the organization is constantly evolving, making a meaningful impact on its member colleges, and the lives of its community members. Through face-to-face interactions and digital platforms, COPLAC facilitates continuous dialogue about the future of liberal arts and fosters exciting initiatives that will shape that future of our world.

As COPLAC moves forward, the community’s collective ideas, energy, and vision will drive its efforts to build stronger connections, enhance education, and create life-shaping opportunities for all. I look forward to engaging with students, faculty, staff, and alumni as we continue to provide accessible, impactful, and meaningful liberal arts education experiences for the benefit of a public good.

Jeanine Went
Executive Director
Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges