Being a college or university president requires broad vision, yet a new president typically comes with substantial background in only a few of the many areas of presidential responsibility. Expectations for new presidents are very high, and the 24/7 nature of the position offers little opportunity for leisurely learning on the job. The first months in the position can be overwhelming; missteps at this time can be critical to long-term success.
Recognizing the special needs and concerns, CIC’s New Presidents Program—the oldest of the programs serving recently appointed college presidents and their spouses or partners—focuses on the presidential leadership of independent colleges and universities. Held immediately prior to the annual
Presidents Institute, the program is led by experienced presidents and presidential spouses, and affords opportunities to share ideas with others who are new to the presidency and to the role of presidential spouse. Since 1989, more than 700 new presidents have benefited from the program.
Mary Pat Seurkamp, CIC senior advisor, who recently completed 15 years of service as president of Notre Dame of Maryland University, directs CIC’s New Presidents Program.