Rapid changes in science, technology, economics, and politics present great opportunities and even larger responsibilities to leaders in higher education. The concepts of universality, diversity, and interdependence are components of the mission of American universities. Many American universities are universal in two senses, in that they offer an all-encompassing range of subjects and disciplines, and serve a broad spectrum of people and society generally. The concept of diversity also has multiple meanings in the United States--it stands for the many avenues of entry to educational programs and also refers to the ethnic, racial, religious, and language diversity which characterizes American society. Michigan State University has launched a plan for achieving a new level of diversity and excellence, with 50 initiatives addressing quality of academic life, status, and opportunity for minorities, the handicapped, and women. In an era when so many critically important issues can only be dealt with on an international basis, the reality of interdependence can no longer be denied, especially concerning such issues as the environment, management of human diseases, search for energy alternatives, problems of hunger, and the control of terrorism. The reality of interdependence calls for new forms of cooperation among universities, such as joint research projects, increased networking, and collaboration among scientists. (JDD)