The State Higher Education Executive Officer and the Public Good

Book excerpt: While issues of higher education access, opportunity, and impact are hotly debated on the floors of Congress and in state legislatures, it is the state’s higher education executive officer (SHEEO) who is expected to be an innovative policymaker, an astute political actor, an all-seeing fortune-teller, and a rapid problem-solver. These professionals must achieve a balancing act between political agendas and academic freedom while ensuring that the institutions they represent are maximizing their contribution to the larger public good and preparing students to become contributing citizens. In this volume, scholars and practitioners come together to explore the position of the SHEEO. Chapters present historical investigations, original research, and reflections and advice for current and aspiring SHEEOs, their agency staff and boards, state policy leaders, and students of state policymaking and higher education. Each chapter ends with recommendations for the continuing study of, and attention to, the important role of the SHEEO. Book Features: An entire volume solely dedicated to SHEEOs—the individuals responsible for state higher education policy coordination and leadership. Contributions from renowned scholars from higher education, public policy, political science, and public administration, as well as seasoned SHEEOs. Practical advice, high quality and original empirical investigations, and theoretical considerations related to state higher education leadership and governance. A new research agenda with ideas for potential projects outlined at the end of each chapter.