Implementing Sustainable Change in Higher Education: Principles and Practices of Collaborative Leadership

This book provides theory-informed and practical guidance on implementing and sustaining change through collaborative leadership in higher education. It employs the Excellence in Higher Education (EHE) framework and highlights three key themes: understanding and leveraging change dynamics, leading collaboratively, and adopting and pursuing a shared vision of organizational purpose and aspirations. It is intended for faculty and staff who want to advance the effectiveness and impact of their programs, departments, and institutions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2022
Publisher: Stylus Publishing

This comprehensive book provides formal and informal leaders at all levels of their institutions with theory-informed and practical guidance on implementing and sustaining change through collaborative leadership. The framework and concepts presented are applicable at the department, program, campus, or system level, enabling minor, incremental, or transformative change. Achieving a shared organizational vision is a formidable task in the higher education sector, owing to the diverse missions, conflicting stakeholder perspectives, siloed organizational structures, traditions of shared governance, and a highly educated workforce comprising colleagues from diverse disciplinary backgrounds. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to consider the organization's systems and values, as well as the needs and aspirations of corresponding stakeholders across the enterprise.

In this regard, Ruben offers a valuable guide for achieving and sustaining these goals in an engaged and collaborative manner. Employing the authors widely used Excellence in Higher Education (EHE) framework, the book provides principles and practices related to change, collaboration, and organizational vision that can greatly enhance the prospects for effective outcomes. Three key themes are highlighted:

Understanding and leveraging the dynamics of change: The book delves into the complexities of change and provides insights into how leaders can navigate and leverage these dynamics to drive positive outcomes. It explores the factors that influence change, such as technological advancements, economic trends, and societal shifts, and offers strategies for adapting and responding to these changes effectively.

Leading collaboratively, and meaningfully engaging one's colleagues: Collaborative leadership is emphasized as a key approach to achieving organizational change. The book provides practical strategies for leaders to engage and motivate their colleagues, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to the change process. It emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships, promoting open communication, and creating a culture of collaboration and trust.

Adopting and pursuing a shared vision of organizational purpose and aspirations: A shared vision is essential for driving organizational change and achieving long-term success. The book guides leaders on how to develop and communicate a shared vision that aligns with the organization's values and aspirations. It emphasizes the importance of engaging stakeholders in the vision-building process, fostering a sense of shared responsibility, and creating a roadmap for achieving the vision.

The book is designed for faculty and staff who aspire to advance the effectiveness and impact of their programs, departments, and institutions while fostering a shared vision to sustain these benefits into the future. It serves as a valuable text for the growing number of leadership development programs and courses with a focus on higher education. By incorporating the principles and practices outlined in this book, leaders can create a transformative impact on their organizations and contribute to the advancement of the higher education sector.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642674415