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Membership and Mission

BHEF Membership

BHEF is led by Chair David J. Skorton, president, Cornell University, and Vice Chair William H. Swanson, chairman and chief executive officer, Raytheon Company.

The Executive Committee serves as the board of directors for BHEF, and is responsible for approving all major policies and operating plans of the organization. It includes the chairman, vice chairman, immediate past chairman, and at least four members chosen from the business community and four members chosen from the academic community.

BHEF members provide leadership and energy for BHEF’s initiatives. Some members join BHEF’s working groups—dedicated subsets of members focused on specific initiatives. Others advocate for policy changes at the state and federal levels. Still others lead in their particular communities, working to improve education at the school district level. BHEF’s semi-annual meetings provide members with the opportunity to better understand educational challenges and solutions, network with like-minded peers across sectors, and hear from experts in areas of interest to them.

BHEF's Mission

Strengthening Education to Enhance Competitiveness: BHEF addresses education issues fundamental to our nation’s ability to compete globally. These include improving student achievement and readiness for success in college and work; and strengthening higher education, particularly our national capacity in science, technology, engineering and math. BHEF currently is pursuing two major initiatives advancing solutions in these areas – one focused on college/work readiness and success, and a second promoting America’s leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Research and Collaboration: BHEF conducts research to create solutions that address our nation’s most significant education challenges. This research identifies strategies and policy reforms that BHEF and its members advance in conjunction with partners and other organizations. BHEF’s recent research has explored the need for enhanced recruitment, retention and renewal of the nation’s math and science teaching workforce. To amplify its impact, BHEF partners with other organizations, where appropriate.

Leadership and Action: BHEF brings together an extraordinary coalition of corporate, academic and foundation members to influence public policy and inspire other corporate, academic and foundation leaders to act. BHEF members are driving change “on the ground.” They develop, adopt and promote best practices and strategic approaches among corporate, education and foundation leaders, nationally and locally. They also advocate for policy changes at the federal, state, and local levels.