President Brown’s Legacy—in Numbers

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President Brown’s Legacy—in Numbers

More financial aid. A more robust endowment. Tougher academic standards. A greater impact through research. The effect of Robert Brown’s 17 years as Boston University president can best be seen through a series of charts

September 7, 2022
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Sometimes the numbers really do tell the story. The amount of undergraduate financial aid disbursed by Boston University during President Robert A. Brown’s 17-year tenure (2005-2022) nearly tripled. The number of undergraduate applicants seeking admission to the University shows a similar trend. Sponsored research awards to BU almost doubled during Brown’s time, and the endowment nearly quadrupled. Below is a snapshot of the impact of Brown’s presidency.

Click on the images below for a more accessible version of each chart.

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President Brown’s Legacy—in Numbers

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There are 16 comments on President Brown’s Legacy—in Numbers

  2. I’d like to see the gross numbers in real terms (adjusted for inflation). In addition, I would like to see the growth in endowment compared to the returns typically earned in higher education etc. to put some of these numbers in perspective.

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    1. You can compute the inflation adjusted numbers using the CPI. Endowment growth is a combination of return on investment, additions to the endowment due to gifts and surpluses and reductions due to amount spent each year from the endowment.

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  3. One would be hard pressed to find any president at any university who has accomplished so much in so many categories during this era. President Brown’s achievements have catapulted the University forward academically, financially, administratively and culturally. History will truly note this “breakout” with his leadership.
    Congratulations Bob and BU!

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  4. And if anyone has had the good fortune to stumble upon him anywhere on campus, you would notice that he is friendly and gracious. Excellent character and personality, above all!

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  5. What these charts do not translate is the street value of a BU degree. A BU degree is highly valued, respected, and desired, even more than it was when he got the job. “Leave your campsite better than you found it.” Job well done, President Brown!

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  7. He really is a great president
    His personality is such that he is able to get along well with large donors who gave to the school and continued to do so
    I think his background as an chemical engineer
    gave him a much needed different perspective compared to someone with liberal arts as we see with most college presidents

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  8. It has been a plesure to work with Bob Brown over these last 17 years as a volunteer on the BUAC and Board of Advisors. His vision for and dedication to Boston University has been inspiring and the results of his efforts will forever change the face of BU for the better.

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  9. President Brown, you have guided Boston University through some difficult times with the university always growing in a positive direction.
    Thank you for your steady, knowledgeable, and astute leadership.
    looking forward to seeing you back in the classroom!

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  11. President Brown and his administration’s accomplishments make this old alum very proud. He did so much on so many fronts without being confrontational and divisive…which was a very welcome change. Well done!

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  12. Congratulations on a job superbly done! Your high standard of personal excellence translated into excellence for Boston University in so many areas. As a former member of the BUAA I personally can vouch for your friendly and welcoming personality. Your legacy will clearly be one of academic and individual growth for all who study or work at BU. Another #1 ranking for BU…Best University President!

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    1. A superb and beyond impressive tenure, without question. Th BU community should make it a top priority to build off the legacy of Dr. Brown. Given BU’s membership in the Patriot League, now would be as good a time as any, to reinstate Boston University football. Go Terriers!!!

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