The Role and Responsibilities of Governing Boards in Response to Student Action

Abstract

This chapter outlines the issues associated with free speech and student activism, and how contemporary practices adopted by college and university governing boards facilitate learning environments that protect and promote First Amendment ideals. In order to accomplish this, boards must balance the competing views of student free speech while absorbing a diverse array of public and political pressures. Scrutiny by students, elected officials, and media is increasingly placed on institutions to implement policies accommodating a wide range of stakeholder needs. Governing boards are therefore called on to provide leadership that is responsive to these interests.