Search

The article reports that two studies sponsored by the American Association of Community Colleges have found a rapid upward trend in the age profile among presidents and senior administrative staff in community colleges, and these studies reported that nearly half of those in senior leadership positions plan to retire during the current decade. The presidents of Massachusetts' community colleges and their executive office have also recognized the leadership crisis and have responded with a new and different approach--the Community College Leadership Academy (CCLA). CCLA was established to help prepare senior administrators and faculty members for the many leadership positions becoming available at community colleges throughout the state. The presidents of all 15 community colleges in Massachusetts meet regularly in a Community College Presidents' Council to discuss matters of common concern and to forge a common voice on matters of community college policy in the state. In summary, the CCLA model provides an excellent example for other state community college systems that are looking for ways to invest in the development of leaders within their own ranks.