What is Democratic Process

Shared governance is an important part of a healthy college or university. Shared governance, like democracy, requires open communication, trust, respect, and the ability to work toward the common good. Using the collective wisdom of faculty, staff, students, and board members, shared governance can unite diverse views and experiences to provide an institution with insight and oversight. This chapter provides an overview of why shared governance is essential to the health, strength, and future of America's colleges and universities. The chapter explores principles and models of shared governance, including the “Student Leaders Principle” and the “Principle of Equitable Representation and Jurisdiction.”