Understanding University Committees: How to Manage and Participate Constructively in Institutional Governance

Description

Committees are indispensable to the governance of higher education, yet there is seldom guidance to faculty and administrators on how committees should be conducted or how to maximize committee obligations. This is the first handbook on how both to manage committees and how to engage effectively as members to achieve departmental or broad institutional goals, and how participation valuably contributes to individual learning and advancement. Based on empirical research, organizational theory, and interviews with faculty and administrators, Dr. DavidFarris provides an informative and vivid examination of the dynamics of committee work, addresses the planning, conduct, roles, composition, and dispositions of members as well as the institutional context and structures in which they operate that are vital to organizational success. Committees are not just laboratories for implementing the vision of university leadership, developing solutions to institutional challenges, and refining organizational procedures; they are the proving ground for future leaders in higher education. How members perform in committees reflects our professionalism, aptitude, integrity, and character - all-important considerations given that we serve as ambassadors for our department, college, office, and colleagues. In addition to reviewing the mechanism of committees, Dr. Farris provides practical information regarding the functional application of committees (tactical, operational, or strategic), committee leadership and management,group dynamics that influence committee performance, and the importance of diversity and inclusive committee cultures to institutional performance.