Today, the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal released a new policy brief, “Blueprint for Reform: University Governance” and model legislation to implement its recommendations, The Higher Education Governance Transparency Act.
The brief presents a robust set of recommendations aimed at fostering enhanced accountability and transparency on university boards and aligning board incentives with public service.
“Blueprint for Reform: University Governance” offers a comprehensive framework designed to address the critical need for increased accountability and transparency in board governance. The policy brief distills extensive research, best practices, and real-world examples into a concise guide.
Key recommendations presented in “Blueprint for Reform: University Governance” include:
Accessibility of Contact Information: Urging universities to make staff and board members’ email addresses easily accessible online, facilitating transparent and open communication between stakeholders.
Public Availability of Mailing Addresses: Encouraging the disclosure of board members’ office or university mailing addresses, promoting accessibility and accountability to the broader university community.
Recording and Posting of Meetings: Advocating for the recording and online posting of all publicly held meetings, including committee, subcommittee, and special meetings, to provide transparency and facilitate public scrutiny.
Advance Public Notices: Requiring universities to make meeting notices publicly available at least one week in advance, allowing stakeholders to prepare and participate effectively.
Timely Availability of Meeting Minutes: Urging universities to make meeting minutes publicly available as soon as they are approved, ensuring transparency and accountability in board decisions.
Roll-Call Voting and Online Publication: Recommending the adoption of roll-call voting during board meetings and providing these records online in the meeting minutes, fostering transparency and accountability.
Orientation and Ongoing Training: Promoting the provision of comprehensive orientation and ongoing training programs for board members, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
Public Comment Periods: Advocating for dedicated time during full board meetings to hear public comments, allowing diverse voices to be heard and considered in decision-making processes.
Commenting on the release of “Blueprint for Reform: University Governance,” Martin Center President Jenna Robinson said, “This publication serves as a vital resource for universities. By implementing these recommendations, institutions can cultivate public trust and make informed decisions that provide value for students and citizens. The Martin Center’s model legislation gives state legislatures a useful tool to reform public university governance in their states.”
“Blueprint for Reform: University Governance” comes at a time when public trust in universities is at an all-time low. Reforms to improve transparency and accountability can provide additional public oversight to restore confidence in higher education.
The policy brief, “Blueprint for Reform: University Governance,” is now available for download on our website. The Higher Education Governance Transparency Act is available here. For additional information, interview requests, or media inquiries, please contact:
Shannon Watkins
Research Associate
swatkins@jamesgmartin.center
919-828-1400
About the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal:
Since 2003, the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal has been the voice for state higher education policy reform and excellence in higher education. Through rigorous research, policy analysis, and advocacy, we strive to renew and fulfill the promise of higher education—in North Carolina and beyond.