Examines the emergence of the concept of university leadership, common in the United States but relatively new in many other countries. Describes three models of institutional leadership (academic chief executive officer, elected rector, and minister) and analyzes the potential of each. Discusses both national and institutional culture as powerful…

Describes the paradox that the diversity found in community college students is not reflected among college leaders. Discusses common career pathways taken by college presidents. Provides recommendations for increasing the number of minorities in leadership positions, emphasizing encouragement from presidents and trustees and the creation of an…

Offers 10 rules for effective school board members. Good board members are team players--objective, consistent, reliable, and optimistic; visit schools; listen; support board decisions yet retain their individuality; communicate with all constituents; have an investment in education; and support students. (LMI)

Based on a survey of graduates of University of Pittsburgh master's degree programs, this article presents information on special librarians and compares them with other library and business professionals. Data are included on gender, race, and age; social background; education; prior work experience; career paths; job interruptions; salaries;…

In a study of the compensation of more than 600 college and university presidents, both individual and institutional characteristics were found to predict salary. The overall results are consistent with both functional theories of compensation and perspectives emphasizing the attribution of effectiveness to leaders. (MSE)

Summarizes "Administrative Shortage in New England: The Evidence, the Causes, the Recommendations." High pressure, long hours, low salaries, and high housing costs are among the reasons cited for the shortage. Recommendations are centered on role identity, staff support, training, and recruitment. (SI)

Compares the principal-teacher interactions in an instructionally effective elementary school with those in an ordinary school. Findings about the principal of the more effective school include the following: (1) expressed concern and support; (2) had high instructional expectations; and (3) interacted frequently with teachers. (FMW)

A ratio comparing the number of administrators in central offices with those outside central offices was used nationwide in 1988 to assess decentralization in large school districts. Sixteen of 62 districts were decentralized. The same survey in 1980 revealed 39 of 65 districts were decentralized. Decentralization is decreasing as an…

Explores the differences between the characteristics, goals, and required skills of librarian-trained managers employed in nonlibrary but library-related settings and those of directors of libraries. Methodologies used in the exploration included interviews with managers in nonlibrary settings, analysis of position descriptions from…

A qualitative investigation of the conduct and content of medical school admission interviews found that differences in the 10 interviewers' perceptions of the purpose and structure of the interview varied according to their professional background and amount of experience with the admissions process. (MDM)

Condenses a research study of chief administrators' longevity in U.S. accredited international schools worldwide. Identifies several factors that significantly affect (usually brief) job duration, including school governing structure, the head's teaching experience and number of years in international education, and school characteristics. The…

If a school and community are qualified enough to hire teachers, counselors, and secretaries through school-based-management processes, they are equally qualified to hire the school principal. This article describes a site-based team-selection process designed to identify optimal administrator characteristics, advertise the job opening, handle…

This study explores the views of campus constituent groups about what makes a good college president. Interviews with 142 members of the governing board, senior administrators, and faculty leaders indicate that competent, patient leaders who are constantly attentive to relationships and meaning are the most highly valued. (SLD)

Leadership skills are essential for today's medical school deans to meet today's complex institutional demands. In an environment that has traditionally valued autonomy, deans must be skilled at collaboration, have vision, and offer direction, while suppressing ego. A checklist of characteristics and responsibilities of deans is offered for new…

Surveys the national context of recruiting and hiring faculty developers, examines faculty development center staffing, and discusses the advantages and challenges of hiring a diverse staff. Offers suggestions for the future of educational development associations as multicultural organizations and how educational development professionals can…