Citizens of today and tomorrow need to be able to solve the challenges of the world, including the existential threats of a changing climate, depleted biodiversity, and disrupted communities with the vision of a scientist, the discipline of an engineer, the heart of a humanist, and the creativity of an artist. This is the goal of a liberal arts education. In this session, Provost Alan Townsend will moderate a discussion with Drs. Marcia McNutt and Jane Lubchenco, two distinguished scientists and CC alumnae who have exemplified a cross-disciplinary and leading approach to science and its relevance to our lives. Drs. Lubchenco and McNutt will talk about the advantages of the liberal arts backgrounds in their own careers, how that approach to education is more important than ever, and how it can help society move forward at a critical time.