Shared governance is the decision-making model that guides leaders across all higher education institutions. There is much written about this model of authority being delegated from the board to administration, and then from administration to the academy. In a perfect world, the Board oversees and guides, the administration develops tangible strategies to fund and execute, and the academy provides the intellectual rigor and evidence that validates the strategy.
Missing in the literature on shared governance is a recognition that in the absence of collaboration, leaders execute by power over people or activities. Breakdowns of trust, a lack of transparency, or an incomplete understanding of roles end up driving boards, administrators, and academics to act in unproductive manners.
Navigating this problem is simple, but not easy. Start by recognizing and naming the interpersonal dynamics, not from a place of blame but from a recognition that shared governance is a historical phenomenon that contributes to diminished trust.
Open conversations to learn about one another. Ask the question - “What concerns do you have that you’d like us to appreciate?” Then listen. This is the gateway to building appreciation for what others are dealing with and forms a roadmap for the healthy tension of shared governance that we all strive for.
Check out these podcasts on Shared Governance: