As Government Encroaches, Presidents Must 'Lead the Sector': A Call for Postliberal University Leadership
In their latest publication, The Postliberal University, authors Brendan Cantwell and Barrett Taylor emphasize the crucial role of university presidents in addressing the challenges facing higher education today.
The book, released on November 9th, 2026, highlights the need for higher education leaders to be proactive in defining the threats faced by universities in an ever-evolving landscape. As the government's influence on the sector continues to grow, university presidents must step up and lead the way.
Understanding the Postliberal University
The authors argue that in a postliberal world, universities must adapt to navigate the complexities of political, social, and economic changes. This requires presidents to clearly articulate the challenges and opportunities presented by these changes, ensuring their institutions remain relevant and resilient.
Addressing the Threats and Opportunities
By laying out the threats to higher education, such as increased government regulation and funding pressures, university presidents can effectively address the concerns of stakeholders and build support for their institutions.
At the same time, they must also highlight the potential for universities to drive innovation, social change, and economic growth in response to the changing environment.
The Importance of Collaboration
According to the authors, effective leadership in the postliberal university requires collaboration among presidents, faculty, and students. By working together, they can develop strategies to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the changing landscape.
Call to Action for University Presidents
As the government's role in higher education continues to evolve, university presidents have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of their institutions and the sector as a whole. By embracing the challenges and opportunities of the postliberal university, they can ensure the sustainability and success of their universities in a rapidly changing world.
The Postliberal University: A Call for Resilience and Innovation
The publication of The Postliberal University highlights the need for universities to adapt and innovate in the face of increased government involvement. As the world continues to shift, university presidents must lead their institutions through this transition, ensuring their continued relevance, resilience, and success.
Implications for Higher Education
The book's insights have significant implications for the broader higher education sector. As governments around the world grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by the changing landscape, university presidents play a vital role in guiding their institutions and the sector as a whole.
Call for Collaboration and Innovation
In the face of increased government involvement, the authors encourage collaboration among presidents, faculty, and students to develop strategies for navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities presented by the postliberal university.
The Postliberal University: A Call for Adaptation
The publication of The Postliberal University highlights the need for universities to adapt to the changing landscape. As governments worldwide grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving educational environment, university presidents must lead their institutions and the sector as a whole.
Implications for Higher Education
The insights presented in the book have significant implications for the broader higher education sector. As governments worldwide grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving educational landscape, university presidents play a vital role in guiding their institutions and the sector as a whole.
<small>Source: Inside Higher Ed — read the original story there.</small>
