From the Playing Field to the Executive Office

Abstract

Small, private colleges are run by a president, who sets strategy, while working with senior-level staff and faculty to fulfill mission. The president of a small, private college must set the tone for leadership and communication, devise strategic plans, and appoint staff to accomplish those initiatives, raise funds, and attend campus events and cheer on students. Athletics in the small, private college setting is an important component for enrollment, campus life, and budget. NCAA Division III institutions, largely small, private colleges, incorporate athletics into campus life and position the student before the athlete. The presidents of these institutions are keenly aware of how athletics influences the small, private college landscape. This chapter explores the convergence of the unique role of the small, private college presidency and the influence of athletics. The authors explore the extant literature and present key findings from a case study of one small, private college president and their view of the influence of athletics on the institution and the role of presidency.