In November 2023, I published a blog for the American Council on Education titled “The College President’s Role During Times of Crisis.”
At that time, some of the major crises facing college presidents and institutions included navigating post-pandemic challenges, the initial shock of the Israel-Hamas conflict, and a growing national mistrust of higher education and its leaders. Now, a year later, these issues have not only persisted but have intensified alongside new, complex challenges. I still stand by my original assertion: “In an era marked by heightened challenges, it has never been more important for university presidents to serve as steadfast leaders during times of crisis.”
In my initial blog, I reflected on my experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. That period, which began in March 2020 and extended well over two years, tested every college president’s resolve. As the president of the University of La Verne, I shared insights and published several articles on the importance of wearing “presidential bifocals” to navigate these turbulent times. I emphasized that effective leaders must address immediate campus needs while keeping a strategic eye on long-term institutional success and sustainability.
As of November 2024, campuses appear more polarized than ever, with heightened tensions around issues such as Middle East conflicts, the U.S. presidential election, diversity and inclusion, and the overall value and future of higher education. Students, faculty, staff, donors, boards of trustees, and community partners increasingly look to presidents and institutional leaders to guide them toward stability amid these difficult conversations.
In nearly every conversation I have with fellow presidents, a recurring theme emerges: how to manage the intense debates, protests, and activism that is occurring on campuses today. Based on my experiences and ongoing discussions with colleagues, I believe there are essential steps for leading through these crises while focusing on safety, mental health, learning, and communication.
Four Essential Leadership Roles During Times of Crisis:
- Prioritize Physical Safety
Presidents must ensure that students, faculty, and staff are protected from physical violence. A zero-tolerance policy for violence or threats of violence should be clearly established, with all campus stakeholders aware of the consequences for such behavior. Physical aggression, intended to harm others, should lead to action and consequences in line with institutional policies. - Provide Mental and Emotional Health Support
Many individuals on campus are deeply affected by the crises we face. Institutions should offer robust mental health resources and reduce any stigma associated with seeking help. Faculty and staff should be trained to guide students and colleagues to support services when needed. - Foster an Educational Haven
Colleges and universities must serve as places where students can engage in critical thinking, develop intercultural communication skills, and learn to navigate complex, differing perspectives. Faculty members play a vital role by incorporating tools for critical thinking, perspective-taking, listening, and civil dialogue within their curricula. Discrimination, hate speech, and harassment—whether antisemitic, anti-Arab, homophobic, or otherwise—should have no place on campus. Instead, campuses should provide facilitated discussions and establish “rules of engagement” that allow for respectful exchanges without fear of retribution. - Communicate Regularly and Consistently
Throughout crises, campus leaders should reiterate their commitment to safety, mental health, and open dialogue. These “presidential bifocals” focus on maintaining immediate safety, fostering a healthy campus climate, and upholding the mission of higher education. Clear, consistent communication from the president and senior administration offers the roadmap for campus communities seeking stability, mutual respect, and a cohesive vision.
A Note on Public Statements
Presidents must carefully decide whether to make public statements on divisive issues. Some leaders will find they align with their institution’s mission and Board of Trustees’ support, while others may choose restraint. Regardless, the president’s role remains to ensure physical safety, mental health resources, and healthy, open dialogue that empowers students, faculty, and staff to form their perspectives through critical inquiry.
In these fragile times, our campuses look to their presidents and senior leadership for strong, empathic guidance that upholds physical and emotional well-being while nurturing thoughtful and constructive debate. By remaining visible, proactive, and principled, presidents and senior leadership can foster respect and instill confidence in the institution’s future.