What skills should college graduates have in 2012?

21st Century Skills & the University:

“They need to be agile, creative problem solvers who draw their knowledge from multiple perspectives both domestic and global, who approach the world with empathy, and who are ready to act with others to improve the quality of life for all.

“Another name for these graduates is democratic citizens.”
A National Call for Action: A Crucible Moment

National Association of Colleges and Employers: Ranked List of Important Candidate Skills and Qualities

1. Ability to work in a team structure
2. Ability to verbally communicate with persons inside and outside the organization
3. Ability to make decisions and solve problems
4. Ability to obtain and process information
5. Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work
6. Ability to analyze quantitative data
7. Technical knowledge related to the job
8. Proficiency with computer software programs
9. Ability to create and/or edit written reports
10. Ability to sell or influence others

Job Outlook 2012 Survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (the full report, unfortunately is almost $50 for non-members)

“I look to the diffusion of light and education as the resource most to be relied on for ameliorating the conditions, promoting the virtue and advancing the happiness of man.”
Thomas Jefferson to Cornelius Camden Blatchly 1822

I have to credit Ken O’Donnell for assembling the above quotes (the cited material from the talk is available on Google docs if you click the link on his About page.