Presidential Selection, Salaries, and Moral Leadership

Abstract

The university president, by almost any measure, is the most influential and important role in higher education. Selecting a president is the most important duty of governing boards; however, the long-standing traditions for selecting presidents are leading to an increased turnover and more failed presidencies. This chapter calls for greater succession planning and preparation for these leadership roles. It also takes strong exception to lavish salaries and compensation packages that are totally inconsistent with the values of public higher education and the salary structures on their campuses. The chapter also makes the case for stronger moral leadership from university presidents and points out that this need is attracting greater attention and growing stronger. University governing boards have their work cut out for them in strengthening the process of presidentialselection, setting appropriate levels of compensation, and restoring public confidence in higher education and its leadership.