News & Insights

In a recent article on the Inside Higher Ed website, "Academic Fantasies: Open Trustee Meetings," John Lombardi examines a polished pillar of board leadership: the open board meeting (or, as Lombardi describes it, that "theatrical forum where talented individuals play ritualized parts according to well prepared scripts"). The theatrical descriptors are often apt, and outside observers may be disappointed by meetings with an apparent lack of serious discussion, votes on important issues that seem mere formality, and a blanket of cordiality that covers even the most contentious business of the day.

Lombardi argues that public university boards need this kind of open meeting. The presence of reporters requires trustees to hash out business in informal settings if they want to "control the message," as they say. The interplay between education and politics at the state level does require trustees to exhibit a bit of PR savvy. But what about the board of a small seminary? Politics often play a role, but not the kind that pits donkeys and elephants. And certainly not the kind that attracts the local paper, let alone the media at large. Do these boards need a dress rehearsal before the big show?

There is, of course, still a message that needs to be controlled, and perhaps because the channels of information are less formal, the message needs to be held even tighter. On the other hand, maybe the lack of a media presence means that seminary board meetings can offer something even more transparent than the sterile theatrics of a public university board meeting.

I'd love you hear your thoughts.

Photo by James Cridland

Top Topics

Roles & Responsibilities

Challenges

Opportunities

Board Essentials

Upcoming Events

The In Trust Center hosts learning community spaces throughout the year. Check out our upcoming events below.

Conflict + Crisis: Navigating the Shoals, Part 2 – A Deeper Dive

Thursday, February 15, 2024, 1:00 p.m. (ET)

Presenter Donna Alexander, President & CEO of Advoxum Global Strategies, offers best practices for navigating conflict and crisis. She examines the crucial elements of defining conflict and crisis, identifying, and prioritizing affected stakeholders, utilizing effective communication strategies, and ultimately, executing a plan of action. Click here to register.

In Trust Center Resource Grants

FEBRUARY 22, 2024, 1 PM (ET)

An In Trust Center Resource Grant offers member schools a chance to explore innovation at their institutions through a matching grant opportunity of up to $15,000. Join us for this 30-minute information session, including Q&A, as we provide details on eligibility requirements, funding priorities, application process. Previous grantees are eligible to apply as long as they are not within our current funding cycle. Click to register.

Conflict + Crisis: Navigating the Shoals, Part 1

ON DEMAND

Presenter Donna Alexander, President & CEO of Advoxum Global Strategies, offers best practices for navigating conflict and crisis. She examines the crucial elements of defining conflict and crisis, identifying, and prioritizing affected stakeholders, utilizing effective communication strategies, and ultimately, executing a plan of action.

Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?

In Trust Center provides Resource Consulting to our members at no charge. Contact us today and let us guide you to the most helpful resources for your situation.

Contact Us