Speaking at Sorbonne University: The Higher Ed Journey Through Social Capital
In June, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Paris and speak at Sorbonne University about one of my favorite subjects — the role of social capital in the higher education journey.
Standing in a historic institution that has shaped thinkers and leaders for centuries was both humbling and inspiring. The conversations that emerged during my time there reaffirmed something I’ve long believed: while education equips us with knowledge, it’s connection that helps us transform that knowledge into impact.
My talk explored how social capital — the networks of trust, reciprocity, and shared purpose we build — plays a defining role in student success, faculty collaboration, and institutional innovation. From mentorship and belonging to cross-cultural partnerships, the higher education journey is at its best when relationships are seen not as byproducts of learning, but as essential engines of growth.
It was a privilege to engage with international educators, researchers, and leaders who share this vision — to see how global collaboration can strengthen our local efforts to build more connected, equitable, and human-centered academic communities.
Paris reminded me that ideas, like people, travel best when carried through relationships. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.
— Dr. Rick L. Mask
Author of “Social Capital 2.0” | Senior Associate Dean | Researcher & Speaker on Leadership and Connection
The Official Author Page of Dr. Rick L. Mask (The Social Capitalist) and the Home of Social Capital 2.0 