<p>Speaking from a historical perspective, the University is still feeling the effects of Robert Maynard Hutchins’ tenure as President of the University. Hutchins instituted much of what we now identify as ‘UChicago,’ the Core, the commitment to academics and intellectualism, etc. Unfortunately, in this process he also made decisions that hampered the University’s societal and fiscal health; he alienated alumni and donors, choosing to focus on the life of the mind today rather than tomorrow.</p>
<p>The University administration is now trying to correct this, while maintaining the unique culture on campus that really makes us Chicago. They’ve been working to grow the endowment, instead of just spending it, and financial aid has increased in the past few years to reflect these changing economic conditions for the University.</p>