Higher Education Governing Boards: Oversight and Accountability

“Higher education governing boards” in the United States are often described as unique and independent, as these boards consist of individuals from outside the colleges and universities they govern. These individuals bring their expertise and judgment to bear on issues and policies affecting higher education institutions and those affecting systems such as the State University of New York and California Community Colleges. Some of these issues and policies include: the institution’s or system’s mission and educational experiences, its business models and fiscal challenges (including state and federal funding), student access, affordability (including student aid and student debt), college completion, educational quality and accreditation, regulations and compliance, employment after college, public skepticism and calls for transparency and accountability, and higher education’s overall return on investment.

As fiduciaries ...