Uncommon Governance

Multiple direct observations suggest that community college board governance exists today, very much as it has for many decades, often encumbered by outmoded, unchecked, ineffectual practices, and absent clarity of purpose. The absence of a routine assessment of a board's own governance style and efficacy foretells a future inability for meaningful impact and quantum gains in the service of those the college was designed to serve. This chapter challenges board members to lean into the necessary work of governing by thoughtfully considering their current governance model and associated practices, relative to what could be greater levels of board effectiveness. A number of tools and alternatives are offered in the chapter to assist boards in this work, including the introduction of a governance hierarchy to provide an aspirational context for improved board effectiveness, as well as a new concept of Covenant Governance, and the benefits of a Policy Governance Model.