"A new report argues the while increasing politicization of university governing boards has contributed to the erosion of academic freedom in recent years, boards also have the potential to adopt frameworks focused on protecting institutional autonomy. "Decisions that were once guided by academic standards and institutional autonomy have become arenas for political influence and ideological control. The consequences have been profound,""
"The report cites numerous examples of how politicized university boards--including some from Florida, Ohio, North Carolina, Virginia and Indiana---have influenced curriculum, research and post-tenure review processes in recent years. It describes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' appointment of six new trustees to the board of New College of Florida in 2023 as "a case study in the political takeover of a college campus." Those changes led to the swift closure of some of the public liberal arts college's academic programs, several tenure denials and moves to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives."
Increasing politicization of university governing boards has contributed to erosion of academic freedom, altering decisions about curriculum, research, and post-tenure review. Politicized boards have produced professional uncertainty for faculty, narrowed and less inclusive learning experiences for students, and reshaped public universities around political ideology rather than academic mission. Some governing boards have exerted influence through trustee appointments, program closures, tenure denials, and dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Governing boards retain necessary roles in mission stewardship, presidential selection, legal and risk mitigation, and long-term financial sustainability. Recommended reforms include limiting board authority over teaching and research, eliminating politicized post-tenure review, and depoliticizing trustee appointments.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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