THE YALE UNIVERSITY TREASURER’S REPORT  - 1831

Winthrop's idea that citizens need to invest in each other in order for the nation to prosper is articulated here in perfect 1830 terms.  American is great because we strive to educate all citizens to their highest capability, regardless of income or origin.  Why waste talent and ability that could help our nation ( and, of course, all of us in the process?) Yale made an early commitment to this philosophy, counting on some 'superflueties' to meet 'necessities':

The College is [] in want of funds for the relief of necessitous students.  Individuals of this class have not unfrequently risen to the highest stations of influence and authority in the nation.  The welfare of our republic requires that such men be educated.  Other colleges very generally offer education to them at reduced price, Yale must therefore do the same, both to promote the interest of the community and to secure her own prosperity.

So whether you are seeking scholarships, funds for the local hospital, or support for an after school program for poor kids, you can cite this basic truth.  In America the very best institutions ( or cities, or businesses) have always competed to support those in need.  In the process, of course, they secured 'their own prosperity'  just as Yale did through offering scholarships 175 years ago.

Now, there are additional texts that deserve to be committed to memory and used repeatedly.  But get these down pat and put them to work..  In a few weeks, we will take a look at some ‘religious’ texts from our founding Judeo-Christian tradition.  These ‘words of wisdom’  far surpass the dogmatic boundaries of any given faith, and simply define the basic reasons why we are lucky enough to be in this world as thinking, feeling human beings.

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