The Presidency, Spring 2008 Issue

Serving Those Who Have Served Their Country
By James Wright
In 1944, the GI Bill improved access to higher education for military veterans, but those returning from the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have vastly more complex needs. The president of Dartmouth, himself a veteran, urges fellow presidents to do what's needed to welcome military personnel into their institutions. Constance M. Carroll, chancellor of the San Diego Community College District, and Charles B. Reed, chancellor of the California State University, add their perspectives on helping returning servicemembers.

The New Children's Crusade: Lessons for College Presidents from the 2008 Presidential Campaign
By Ronald R. Thomas
Increasing numbers of politically involved students have the president of the University of Puget Sound nostalgic for the past and excited for the future. He notes that the race for the White House offers lessons for campus heads who, like the candidates, seek to engage and form lasting attachments with the student population.

Creating a Sustainable American Higher Education System
By Gail O. Mellow
Much like our natural environment, the higher education ecosystem is in danger. In this excerpt from her 2008 Atwell Lecture, the president of LaGuardia Community College challenges her colleagues to recognize the shortcomings within higher education and work toward solutions that will better serve students, communities, and the nation.

Presidents in Action: Leveraging Excellence
By Lee T. Todd Jr.
Recognizing that the relationship between the academy and business and government can be challenging, the president of the University of Kentucky discusses the steps leaders can take to reach understandings that benefit all participants, as well as their constituents. John D. Wiley, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, shares examples of his institution's active partnerships.

Legal Watch: Focus on Conflict of Interest
As higher education institutions face increased scrutiny from lawmakers and the public, ACE's general counsel explains the importance of establishing, communicating, and monitoring conflict of interest policies on campus.

Career Paths
Advisers share their tips for presidents looking for honest and informative performance evaluations.

By the Numbers
Is college worth the cost? A recent poll asked graduates how satisfied they are with their higher education experiences and whether they feel the price they paid is fair.