In 2009, Robert Andringa, the former president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, observed that many Christian colleges were "fragile and on the brink" while facing enormous financial and enrollment challenges (p. 168). The state of most small Christian colleges has not improved since 2009, but it has rather become more vulnerable in the midst of an increasingly secular society and hard-blowing winds of humanism. This study considered the role of boards in turning small Christian colleges around and leading them from barely surviving to financial stability or even thriving. A mixed-method research study based on a homogeneous sampling method was conducted. Higher education governance trends were analyzed, and the relationship between financial stability and board engagement in external activities on behalf of the college governed was explored. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 23 small Christian colleges followed by 16 one-on-one interviews. Board members' understanding of their role and responsibilities as well as their perceptions of effective governing were assessed. Various statistical analyses were conducted to uncover possible correlations between the engagement of trustees and the financial stability of higher education institutions. Competencies impacting board effectiveness were evaluated. Recommendations for increasing governing boards' positive impact on small Christian colleges were made. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]