Leveraging an Overlooked Asset: The Role of Public University Trustees in Institutional Advancement

Abstract:One of a trustee's main responsibilities is serving as a fiduciary of their institution. This includes ensuring adequate resources for their institution to effectively fulfill its mission. Historically, private university governing boards engaged in institutional advancement work to supplement revenues, but this is less common among public boards. However, in an era of increasingly constrained resources, the role of a public university trustee may be evolving. This study interviewed a group of new public university trustees over a two-year period, finding the majority supported their institutions in philanthropic, community, business, and government relations efforts, often citing financial concerns as a reason for this involvement. Specific ways trustees engaged in advancement work and challenges they faced are explored, along with implications for future practice and research.