Community College Trustees: Current and Emerging Perspectives

• In Event: Power and Possibilities in the Community College Context

Abstract

Our paper presents quantitative and qualitative findings from a national study of community college trustees that replicates and extends on seminal work and explores trustees’ views on a wide variety of relevant topics such as equity and inclusion, mission, entrepreneurism, change, and innovation in governance. In addition to providing a comprehensive view of trustees’ perspectives, our research includes analysis of trustees’ views on their colleges’ mission and values, how those beliefs intersect with their own personal values, and the processes by which they guide their institutions. Results from this study will address a void in the literature and improve our understanding of the role trustees play in shaping the future of community colleges.

Authors

• Regina L. Garza Mitchell, Western Michigan University

• Susan Kater, Idaho State University

• Carrie B. Kisker, Center for the Study of Community Colleges

• Brett A. Geier, University of South Florida

• Rebekah Gruel, Idaho State University

• Mwila Mvula, Western Michigan University

• Joshua Amponsah, Western Michigan University