Preparing for the Presidency: Understanding the Political Dimensions of Community College Leadership Dr. Steven C. Ender Thursday, September 22nd 2016 2016-2017 Emerging Leaders
Context College Politics: The process of understanding, managing and leading in an environment rich in conflicting interests. Community College Stakeholders: Faculty, Staff, Students, Trustees, Legislators, District Voters, Donors, Alumni, Retirees, Secondary and Post-Secondary Education, Business and Industry. And there are many more! 1000s and 1000s of bosses!
The Common Denominator is the President Core Personal Values to provide leadership in this environment include: Empathy, Consistency, Transparency, Data-Driven, and Courage (Measured Risk Taking). Core Institutional Values: Protect Accreditation, Financial and Physical Assets, Employees and their Families Core Educational Values: Codified Institutional Polices, Strategic Plan, Laser Vision regarding Student Success
Examples of Conflict: Westmoreland Community College GRCC Football Program Transgender Issues
Recommendations Know yourself, leadership philosophy, and vision for the college. Do not take yourself too seriously. It’s not about you; it’s about the college. Take the office of the presidency seriously. It’s about the college.