A formal governance system was adopted by the Board of Trustees in April 1991 at Burlington County College in New Jersey after the Commission on Higher Education and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools observed that it was lacking. The policy defines the path for maintaining a governance structure which fosters clear and timely communication within and among the college community. Senates of administrators, college staff, faculty, and students were formed to provide representation for all college constituencies. Governance Forums and regular President's breakfasts with leadership from each of the senates were implemented to improve campus communications. Officers from each senate work with elected representatives from their constituencies to study specific issues, while recommendations are presented for discussion and subsequently voted on by the membership before being formally presented to the President. Many recommendations generated by the staff senate have been approved, including the following: (1) the addition of a benefits specialist position; (2) a secretarial pool feasibility study; (3) a process for dealing with on-the-job injuries; and (4) an employee award to recognize special efforts. In addition, an Academic Secretaries Roundtable was created to improve commonly shared work processes, which led to the formation of a Quality Council of secretaries and administrators charged with meeting the needs of constituents; improving work processes; fostering communication and understanding; and supporting other quality service initiatives. (The Board of Trustees policy on governance is appended.) (KP)