As James Duderstadt and Farris Womack—authors of the book The Future of the Public University in America: Beyond the Crossroads—note, a private university campus, with its ivy-covered facilities, plaques, statues, and monuments, often conveys the impression of history and tradition. The notion of a private university, at least from a historical standpoint, equates with the ideals of elitism. Private universities are important drivers of advanced research and productivity. Furthermore, graduates of these universities often occupy positions of importance within a variety of spheres.