Date of Award

2009

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Education

Abstract

The purpose of this case study was to explore the social, cultural, and political factors that contributed to the transformation and renewal of one small, private, Catholic liberal arts institution in the Midwest in its time of financial crisis. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 participants who are constituents (i.e., past and former president, alumni, faculty, staff, and trustees) of Midwest College and whose knowledge by virtue of having experienced the transformation and renewal process was essential to this case study. Investigation of how the transformation and renewal process ultimately attained success indicated three themes in the results: structure (i.e., birth of a predominantly collegial model), symbolic leadership, and sensemaking. Recommendations and observations of institutional transformation for higherEducation include: (a) new leadership can bring high hopes and expectations for the institution; (b) advancing the institution requires constant transparent and meaningful communication, meetings, and engagement with constituents; (c) engage constituents in an institutional planning process that focuses on mission, vision, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats; (d) a significant new initiative can elevate expectations and broaden institutional horizons; (e) demonstrating quick and evident progress gives the campus community a sense of improvement; (f) expertise, perspective, and advice of consultants can be beneficial; and (g) collaborate and cooperate with the local community.

Download

Share

COinS