Webinar: Constructor Conversations

Universities and Foundations – A Complex Relationship?

At first sight, universities and foundations seem to have a lot in common: They are both interested in advancing education, achieving breakthroughs in research, and ensuring positive social impact through collaboration with other stakeholders. However, universities as well as foundations also display multiple differences in their strategic objectives, governance structures, missions, and modes of operation that often lead to different viewpoints, even conflicts when it comes to priority-setting and  decision-making in meeting the challenges ahead, in particular those involved in coming to terms with the complexities of our turbulent times. In this context there are several questions to be raised: To what extent can universities and foundations be catalysts of change and foster transformative research? How can we ensure that by reaching beyond the confines of our institutions we can come up with innovative pathways to solutions and bring about inclusive and equitable societal change for the good of humans and non-humans alike? Will our practices ultimately help to create a more sustainable and resilient future?