As an informational guide for trustees and members of presidential search committees, this paper presents a two-part outline describing the characteristics and responsibilities of the "ideal" community college president. The first part of the outline details presidential qualifications in terms of: (1) personality traits, including leadership ability, communication skills, enthusiasm, and good health; (2) educational background and prior experiences as a teacher, administrator, and manager; and (3) a personal philosophy committed to comprehensive education, educational innovation, and the college's mission and goals. The second part of the outline delineates general presidential functions in the areas of leadership and college management. These functions include acting as chief executive officer and providing guidance and inspiration to the entire college community; planning, implementing and evaluating programs; supervising line administrators; preparing a budget; coordinating college planning; and implementing personnel policies. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of the potential usefulness of the outline in evaluating the performance of college presidents and in conducting a presidential job search. (JP)