Responding to the new demands often requires speed, the statement says, while old-style governance is sluggish. The new document calls for trustees to set deadlines for decision making. Setting deadlines for governance decisions is something that Mary Burgan, head of the A.A.U.P., has already endorsed. Along with the standards, the A.G.B. document lists seven principles that trustees should follow. It also urges board members to avoid become advocates for personal or special interests, and to examine the board's structure and performance periodically.
Professors know that trustees, in reality, do have the final say.
He consulted with a variety of people before writing the document. He expects more people to weigh in during the comment period, which ends on September 21. Still, the group's officials have made clear that while the association wants feedback, it isn't seeking endorsements. The Chronicle of Higher Education, Inc.