With the average tenure of college and university presidents dropping to 6.5 yearsⁱ and the scope of challenges faced by leaders in higher education expanding, the college presidency has been described by some as “the toughest job in the nation.”ⁱⁱ

During my lengthy academic career, the higher education sector has witnessed significant disruption and change—from violent protests over what were believed to be unjust wars, to the desegregation of Southern colleges and universities, to affirmative action challenges decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Risk is characterized by uncertainty – that an event may or may not happen – and undesirable outcomes or loss.

“College kids” is a phrase beloved by lawmakers working on higher education policy and reporters covering campus life. 

Given all of the challenges university presidents face today, focusing on sustainability might seem like a luxury few have time for.

The town-gown divide is not a new issue for college presidents. The relationships between colleges and the communities they inhabit have always been complex.

Today’s graduates will face a hyper-connected, rapidly changing economy and looming global challenges. Over the course of their lives, college graduates will hold nearly 20 jobs in five different industries, including industries that do not yet exist.

Higher education in the United States is under intense scrutiny. Recent polls reveal an unusually large drop in the public’s confidence in the value of a college degree.

Equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are critical and complex issues facing leaders of colleges and universities.

Every fall, thousands of students start their academic journeys at universities across the nation, taking tentative steps towards degrees.

A few years ago, California Lutheran University did what many of you do on a regular basis: we held a table-top emergency drill.