Changing Roles and Selection Procedures for College President.

The changing role and selection procedures for college presidents in the United States, and the changing character of education generally, are traced historically. The information may also serve as a current guide for selection committee members. The discussion considers the traditional role of the college president and its evolution, forces for change, current selection procedures, establishing the qualifications for the college president, and finding the person. Forces for change included the secularization of education, democracy and egalitarianism, and the growth of professionalism. In considering appointment to the selection committee, extra-institutional influence, and the roles of the retiring president, the faculty, and students may be considered. Qualifications for the position which should be assessed include academic background, experience, personality, and special institutional needs. The selection process includes obtaining the names of candidates, the process of elimination, interviewing the top contenders, and making the right choice. (SW)