Program Overview
In a University setting, leadership is not as hierarchical nor as formalized as many believe. Faculty, staff members, and students determine the institution's directions. The President yields to faculty authority over the curriculum. Professional and classified staff make many of the decisions regarding a range of University affairs including business and finance as well as student matters. Student opinion carries weight, from matters concerning safety on campus to library hours and parking policy.
Thus, effective decision makers, in many cases, are not necessarily formal leaders. Decisions at Boise State, as at other colleges and universities, are made at various levels by students, staff, faculty, and administration. Under the direction of Dr. Bob Kustra, the process has become even more open and inclusive.
All members of the campus, not just those with formal authority, need the skills and information necessary to exercise leadership and to make sound decisions. Creating conditions in which this can occur is, in itself, an important act of leadership.
Last reviewed August 2006