The Necessity for Good Governance and  Effective Leadership at Public State-Funded  Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)  in the Midst of COVID-19

Melanie S. Johnson; Samantha  Thompson

Authors

Melanie S. Johnson Southern University and A&M College
Samantha Thompson Southern University Law Center/ USA

Keywords:

decision-making, COVID-19, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), good governance, effective leadership

Abstract

COVID-19 has forever changed the trajectory of higher education and the delivery of services, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Therefore, how HBCUs strategically transform their campus operations with limited resources and remain competitive is vital to their survival. Considering these challenges, examining the role of governance and leadership and their decision-making processes in order to transition every aspect of their instructional services will be critical to the sustainability of these institutions. This essay examines a gap in the body of knowledge related to HBCU governance and leadership during COVID-19 and the considerations encompassing effective leadership during times of crisis.

Author Biographies

Melanie S. Johnson, Southern University and A&M College

MELANIE SMITH JOHNSON, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Southern University and A&M College. Her major research interests focus on public policy, governance, leadership, and change in higher education, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Samantha Thompson, Southern University Law Center/ USA

SAMANTHA A. THOMPSON, PhD, is an Analyst for Institutional Effectiveness at the Southern University Law Center (SULC). Her major research interests lie in the areas of international and comparative higher education, internationalization of education, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and education policy research.