Leadership matters more than ever in this turbulent moment in American
higher education.
During these unprecedented times, glaring internal inefficiencies,
communication breakdowns, and an overriding sense of cultural inertia on
many campuses are too often set against a backdrop of changing consumer
preferences, high sticker prices, declining demand, massive tuition
discounting, aging infrastructure, technological and pedagogical
alternatives, and political pressure. Strategic leadership in such a
complex environment needs to be exercised in nuanced ways that differ
from those embraced by corporate cultures.
In Leadership Matters, W. Joseph King and Brian C. Mitchell argue that
the success of higher education institutions depends on strategic
leaders who can utilize the strengths of their institutions and leaders
to balance internal pressures, shifting demographics, global education
needs, and workforce preparation demands beyond the college gates.
Drawing on their extensive experience, the authors guide senior
administration, trustees, and presidents on how to lead during immense
financial, demographic, and social challenges. King and Mitchell believe
that, to survive, colleges must be well run--flexible, effective, and
forward thinking.
The authors begin with a fundamental premise--that colleges and
universities must evolve and adapt by modernizing their practices,
monetizing their assets, focusing on core educational strategies, and
linking explicitly to the modern world. Discussing a broad range of
leadership positions, including presidents, provosts, and board chairs,
Leadership Matters touches on strategic planning, management and
operations, stakeholder relations, campus and community, accreditation
and athletic conferences, and much more. The authors offer an optimistic
assessment based upon frank and stark conclusions about what colleges
must do--and must not do--to remain relevant in the coming decades.
