The Chronicle of Higher Education released an analysis of the circumstances surrounding 119 presidential exits over the last five years that were deemed controversial. Among the points considered were the length of time between announcement of the controversy and the president’s departure, specific factors including no-confidence votes, and how certain controversies were likely to lead to hasty departures.

The findings paint a picture of an office that is potentially beset by a multitude of conflicts, where presidents have a short time frame in which to make a positive impression on their campus.

“There is no doubt that the college presidency is an increasingly fraught position,” says AGB Institute Director Jason Lane, “but also one of the most important in both higher education and society. We need smart, inclusive and courageous leaders willing to support their institutions as they navigate the many significant challenges now facing higher education and know how to engage the myriad stakeholders that are part of the academic community. One can’t prepare for all of the situations highlighted in the report, but we do know that today’s presidents face an environment very different than even ten years ago.”

The AGB Institute focuses not only on preparing presidents with the knowledge and skills to be innovative and entrepreneurial but also on how to effectively engage with their governing boards and the broader shared governance process.
Applications are opening soon.

Read the report from Chronicle.