Americans are both proud and critical of our higher educational system. More American universities are highly ranked than those in other countries. More international students come here than to any other country. And basic research at U.S. universities has earned more patents and Nobel Prizes than elsewhere. Yet trust in colleges and universities has dramatically declined. Costs have dramatically increased and more parents are questioning the return on investment. Antisemitism and intolerance have been alarming and horrible. Administrative bloat has ballooned. Student loan defaults are on the rise and undermining home purchases, etc. Dozens of college presidents have been forced out. Boards of trustees are troubled and confused by the growing list of criticisms from parents, alumni and government officials. Meanwhile, at least 300 colleges have closed or virtually shut…