By examining the derivation of the title 'dean,' one may discern why the dean has such a wide range of responsibilities. (Editor/PG)

A diagnosis of the problems involved in carrying out affirmative action on campuses, a survey of the recruitment policies of 50 institutions, and an in-depth look at how Bloomsburg State College approached the task are presented. (Author/MLW)

Discusses the pros and cons of faculty on the Board of Trustees and gives an example of faculty trusteeship at Roosevelt University. (PG)

Because of the governance structure of universities--which relies on self-protective faculty senates and external, governmental influence--decision making in institutional administration can become an escalating series of major compromises that frequently prevent any final decision. Some possible alternatives are suggested. (MSE)

To identify and attract outstanding candidates for key nonacademic positions, college and university presidents should employ executive search firms, primarily to learn of outstanding candidates that might never surface in any other way. (MLW)

Financial exigency can be avoided with understanding, courage and determination, and cooperation and planning on the part of administrators. Warning signs of impending danger and a checklist of 99 ways to avoid it are presented. (MLW)

The article identifies three commonalities between the dean and department chair (e.g., both must create and reinforce an appropriate organizational identity) and offers five strategies for collaboration related to the areas of professional development, communication, motivation, budget, and evaluation. (MLW)

Chaos theory, which suggests chaotic looking behavior may manifest order in patterns visible from a distance and emphasizes dynamics of connection and bonds, has useful applications in understanding dynamic organization such as the university, which requires constant change and diversity. It can provide leaders with philosophy of practical…

During any crisis on a college campus, the campus and surrounding community look for concrete signs that the institution is taking the situation seriously and responding with respect for the rights of individuals involved. The institution's first response must be the care and protection of the community, and individuals must be consistently held…

Retired business executives are providing colleges and universities with expertise by consulting in such areas as image strengthening, board revitalization, reviewing program directions, forging business partnerships, improving multicampus institutions' communication and cooperation, systematizing computers, and examining the scope and direction…

A discussion of stress and college administrators looks at two types of stress (eustress and distress), stress and the autonomic nervous system, the need for regular exercise as well as stress reduction activities, the influence of personality on stress, the sources and stages of burnout, and stress management for administrators. (MSE)

Discussion of the creation of the Pennsylvania College of Technology, an affiliate of the Pennsylvania State University, and replacing Williamsport Area Community College, looks at the decisions behind the merger; new governance structures; and strengths, challenges, and concerns about future success. New opportunities for program expansion,…

Operational similarities are examined with respect to the transfer of management science techniques from the private business sector to the university community. The author's conclusion, supported by a study by the Academy for Educational Development, is that the differences in social purposes, contributions, and management processes are more…

The real threat to the quality of life on campus today and in the future is not so much the financial depression but the psychological depression in the academic spirit, suggests this college president. He notes that every problem also represents an opportunity for change. (LBH)