By Susanna Tardi
On Nov. 6, 2014, the National Commission on College and University Board Governance issued a report that was highly critical of higher education governing boards, finding they aren’t serious enough about oversight, “fail to add value to decision making,” are generally inattentive and out of touch, and have outdated policies and practices. The public’s erosion of faith in the value of higher education is testimony to the fact that boards have dropped the ball in dealing with the challenges facing higher education.
The problem in New Jersey is compounded by weak state oversight and a well-publicized lack of coordination among our public colleges and universities. Improvements are urgently needed, and the commission’s report makes well-reasoned recommendations to make decision-making and oversight more substantive and effective.
New Jersey policymakers, Gov. Christie, and Secretary of Higher Education Rochelle Hendricks should carefully consider the recommendations and develop legislation to engage college and university boards in reforming higher education. From the experience of faculty and professional staff, several recommendations deserve special note.
From: The Philadelphia Inquirer, Nov. 17, 2014
