Spring 2007 - Milton Academy

PublicProblemSolvingTaking on our most complex problemsKatherine Fulton, president of the Monitor Institute, used the term“public problem solving” to describe today’s environment of philanthropy—“newplayers, new tools and new pressures that add up to anew time”—she asserted. These philanthropists have publicly namedand embraced problems that affect our lives every day, problems thatseem intractable.In addition to philanthropists, many others, including consultants,visionary founders, and professionals who work in the public interest,are engaged in public problem solving. While many think of thismoment in our history as a dark time, we do see around us creativity,energy, optimism, cooperation, and far sighted commitment to socialand environmental benefit.Many Milton alumni have crafted careers of activism, within the nonprofitsector, in public service, and through political action. With asteady focus on long-term change, they have taken responsibility fortrying to improve our lives and those of our neighbors, nearby andaround the world.Through leadership in companies, organizations, and governmentalagencies, they strive to meet subsistence needs, stem disease, empowercitizens, educate children and care for the planet. Read about them,and about how Milton prepares students to follow their lead.Cathleen Everett2 Milton Magazine