College Presidents
College Presidents on Wazzu: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on college presidents in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around college presidents, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
Preparing for a Changing College Athletics Landscape
## Navigating the New Game: College Athletics in Transition College athletics are undergoing a seismic shift. From NIL deals to conference realignment, the landscape is evolving faster than ever before, leaving university leaders and fans scrambling to understand the implications. Veteran Karen Weaver, with a unique perspective as a former athlete, coach, and administrator, tackles this complexity head-on in her new book. It's a crucial read for college presidents seeking clarity and a roadmap for the future. Weaver’s work isn't just about the money—though that’s undeniably a factor. It’s about understanding the changing power dynamics, the impact on student-athletes, and the long-term sustainability of collegiate sports programs. The book identifies three key areas demanding immediate attention: athlete compensation and rights, the evolving role of the university, and the need for proactive governance to mitigate risk. Expect practical strategies and honest assessments, moving beyond the hype to address the core challenges. This period of rapid change also highlights broader issues within higher education. For instance, the complexities faced by first-generation students—as explored in Joshua Bay’s "The Hidden Curriculum First-Gen Students Face"—mirror the disorientation many are experiencing within the athletics world. Ultimately, navigating this new era requires adaptability, a commitment to student-athlete well-being, and a willingness to reimagine what college athletics can and should be.
College Leaders Get a Boost From Corporate Board Service
## College Leaders Gain Experience (and Income) Through Corporate Board Service A growing number of college and university presidents are supplementing their income by serving on corporate boards—a practice raising questions about its impact on higher education. These appointments, often lucrative, see leaders balancing the demands of running a complex institution with the responsibilities of corporate governance. The core question: is this a mutually beneficial arrangement, or primarily a personal windfall? The benefits are clear for the individuals involved. Corporate board service provides invaluable exposure to diverse business perspectives, strategic decision-making, and executive-level leadership—skills that *can* translate to improved institutional management. Exposure to different industries can also inform curriculum development and research priorities, ultimately benefiting students. However, critics raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest, divided loyalties, and the perception of prioritizing personal gain over the institution’s best interests. The level of compensation involved—often six figures annually—also fuels debate. Is it appropriate for public university leaders to receive such significant additional income? Some argue it’s a fair market rate for their expertise, while others contend it detracts from the image of selfless service expected of those leading educational institutions. For a deeper look at challenges facing higher education, see our recent article, "Cybersecurity Threat Delays Start of Classes at UT San Antonio." Ultimately, the value of this practice hinges on transparency, ethical boundaries, and a clear demonstration of how corporate experience enhances institutional effectiveness.