Daemen University President Gary A. Olson delivered a keynote speech, “Why a College Education Matters,” to faculty and staff during the Title III year three kickoff on Tuesday, Sept. 23, in Daemen Hall. 
Speaking exclusively about the international level of higher-education, Olson drew on his long history as a scholar and a teacher, giving several anecdotes from his experience.
“I was pleased to accept this invitation by Dean Stassen to address the Title III faculty because I believe the work they do with our most vulnerable students is among the most noble work a university can do,” said Olson. “This was my salute to them.” 
Olson discussed many ways in which critical skills — including a command of logic, the ability to discern fact from fiction and fact from opinion, a command of language, and an understanding of the scientific method — are essential to a transformative education, referencing many writers and scholars from the ancient Romans to modern-day philosophers.
“These critical skills are essential to being an educated citizen.”
Title III Strengthening Institutions funding is a U.S. Department of Education grant that helps eligible Institutions of Higher Education to become self-sufficient and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability of eligible institutions.