The Tie That Binds: Trusteeship, Values, and the Presidential Selection Process at African Methodist Episcopal–Affiliated Historically Black Colleges and Universities

• In Event: Institutional Differentiation: Leadership at Hispanic-Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Community Colleges

Abstract

This study aims to discover how trust is established during the decision making processes of boards of trustees at HBCUs. Using a multi-site case study approach, board members of three AME church affiliated HBCUs were interviewed the presidential selection process. Major findings from this study are that personality and character traits of presidential candidates may have a heavier influence on the perception of candidates’ suitability than their resume or past performance. Furthermore, there is a direct reflection of board members’ values in the personality and network traits found desirable and non-desirable in presidential candidates. These shared values create a sense of trust between board members and candidates.

Author

• Felecia Elana Commodore, Old Dominion University