Tough is the author of Whatever It Takes: Geoffrey Canada’s Quest to Change Harlem and America. He is currently working on a new book, The Success Equation, to be published in 2012.
In looking into why some kids fail and others succeed, Tough has delved into psychological research that supports a definition of “character” as a set of malleable, teachable skills valued across cultures. According to Tough’s investigation, stress from poverty creates neural pathways in children’s brains that cause problems later on in life. Strengthening character development can help reduce these effects.
Joe Mazzola, CEP’s President and CEO, and Lara Maupin, Director of the National Schools of Character, attended the forum. The forum was hosted by Georgetown University and the Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy. Approximately 300 people attended.
“The general consensus among the audience seemed to be that this topic is very timely and one we all ought to be focused on,” Mazzola said. “It was a real validation of what our work at CEP is all about.”
Following Tough’s address, Georgetown’s President John DeGioia facilitated a panel discussion that included Assistant Deputy Secretary of Education Jim Shelton, DC Public Schools official Abigail Smith, CEO and Founder of Chicago’s Urban Prep Charter Schools Tim King, and CEO and Founder of the Chavez Schools Irasema Salcido. Panel members addressed the need to gather and report on scientific data that identifies the elements of healthy and supportive school cultures. The forum concluded with several questions from audience members.
“I was very impressed that the President of Georgetown took the time to lead the panel discussion,” Mazzola said. “It shows Georgetown University’s strong commitment to developing leaders of character.”
