Research Forum 2003

James T. Minor
University of Southern California

Decision-Making in Historically Black College and Universities: Defining the Governance Context

Decision-making practices at historically Black colleges and universities are the subject of healthy criticism. To better understand and evaluate the appropriateness of decision-making in these institutions I use case study data to define three key contextual aspects of an HBCU that influence governance. The nature of faculty work, the paradox of mission, and a racialized climate are considered important contextual aspects that influence decision-making. Given these findings I consider alternative theoretical frames to more accurately assess governance structures and decision-making practices in HBCUs.