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How Shared Governance Helps Us Serve Students
Posted by anne.grey | Start the discussion
Presenters: Nick Hengen Fox & Nicole Shappart
View Presentation Slides (Google Slides)
Executive Summary
This presentation explores how implementing shared governance at Portland Community College can empower faculty, academic professionals, and staff to directly influence key college decisions. The presenters recount the grassroots efforts that secured shared governance language in the recent FFAP contract negotiations. They highlight findings from dedicated learning circles that examined governance models at other community colleges, such as Clackamas Community College and Los Angeles City College. Key principles discussed include widening the decision-making circle to include all stakeholders, moving from advisory voices to actual votes, establishing true accountability, and securing adequate compensation for participation. Through open dialogue, participants shared personal experiences with institutional decisions—such as advising redesigns, campus reorganizations, and budget allocations—illustrating how representative decision-making councils can produce better outcomes for students and staff alike.
Presentation Outcomes
After reviewing this presentation, participants will be able to:
- Define Shared Governance: Understand the baseline definition of shared governance within higher education and its specific context at PCC.
- Analyze Contract Language: Identify the contractual rights and commitments regarding shared governance won during recent union negotiations.
- Compare Governance Models: Evaluate alternative institutional models from other community colleges (e.g., LACC and Clackamas) to determine adaptable strategies for PCC.
- Apply the RACI Matrix: Utilize project management frameworks (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) to advocate for moving staff and faculty from advisory roles to decision-making roles.
- Identify Key Governance Councils: Recognize potential functional councils (such as Curriculum, Student Services, Budget, and DEI) needed to decentralized college operations.
- Engage in Strategic Advocacy: Participate in upcoming union and institutional discussions to help shape PCC’s evolving governance structures.
Keywords
Shared Governance, Portland Community College, PCC Faculty, Higher Education Leadership, FFAP Contract, RACI Matrix, Institutional Decision-Making, Community College Leadership, Academic Senate, Educational Advisory Council
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