The structure and functions of the college executive committee are discussed. This committee is pivotal to the effective functioning of the board and to the support of the chairperson and the chief executive in their leadership roles. The committee can act on its own provided it does not assume powers specifically reserved for the board. The…

Discusses the growing trend of "activist trusteeship" in higher education, arguing that college and university governing boards and presidents must realize that their own effectiveness depends on their being able to support one another and negotiate their differences. Also maintains that chief executives and boards should make trustee…

Counters the criticism of the statement by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges on governance and suggests that the critics have misconstrued the statement an attack on shared governance. Suggests that what was intended was an affirmation of governance principles and standards of good practice that reflect a governing…

This booklet offers guidelines for conflict of interest issues and disclosure for members of governing boards of institutions of higher education. It urges institutions to develop conflict-of-interest policy documents to guide decisions concerning such topics as defining what constitutes "conflict of interest"; the board's role in cases of an…

A well-planned, well-executed orientation program can make an enormous difference to a new trustee or regent's future commitment and contribution to the institution. Orientation events not only carry enormous symbolic value, they also have the potential to convey a strong first impression of just how much the chief executive and board leaders…

Leading the board of a public academic institution or system of institutions is a daunting responsibility. The vicissitudes associated with open-meeting laws; the incessant quest by the news media for "scoops"; misunderstandings that can pervade appointed or elected trustees concerning their responsibilities and conduct; the advertent and…

This publication argues for a tripartite policy in higher education that integrates presidential and board reviews and sets out assessment policies that recognize that finding and retaining executive leadership is the board's first responsibility, that integrate presidential and board performance reviews, that make clear that the governing board…

Guidelines for governing boards in creating policy statements on conflict of interest are offered. Issues discussed include defining conflict of interest, perceptions of such conflict, trustee responsibility, and the need for appropriate documentation. A sample policy statement and sample disclosure form for trustees and institutional officers are…

This booklet addresses issues concerning the various responsibilities of trustees on governing boards of independent colleges and universities. Introductory information notes the increasing complexity and significance of the trusteeship role and its unique context in independent institutions. The booklet distinguishes between board and individual…

Approaches to planning, conducting, and assessing workshops or retreats for college trustees and regents are suggested. It is claimed that the most successful workshops or retreats are those that fit into a comprehensive strategy of board development, and that it is important to decide what needs to be accomplished and to involve the board in…

Improvements in the competence of persons who are invited to accept trusteeships and in the performance of governing boards are cited. Two important trends are identified: more qualified lay or nonordained trustees on the boards of church-related institutions and more board authority. (MLW)

Reviews the current roles and responsibilities of college presidents and board members in maintaining good relationships, and proposes a new board structure along with a mechanism for joint review. (RC)

This monograph, directed to trustees and board members of independent colleges and universities, is intended to offer basic information about board and trustee responsibility; to highlight the principles of board and trustee membership; to help members keep themselves, the board, and their institution out of trouble; and to provide information on…

The executive board of the college or university governing board has the central purpose of strengthening the board's performance by helping it function efficiently and effectively. Because the executive committee can undermine trustee morale by abusing its authority, the entire governing board must decide the extent of the powers delegated to the…

This booklet addresses issues concerning the various responsibilities of trustees on governing boards of public colleges and universities. Introductory information notes the increasing complexity and significance of the trusteeship role, and its unique context in public institutions. The booklet distinguishes between board and individual trustee…