ABSTRACT
Leaders initiating partnerships due to economic motivations or mandates typically view outcomes as meeting short-term needs. Particular motivations align for more successful outcomes in which relationships can be fostered and the goals of the partnership are intentionally linked with college priorities. The desire to fulfill institutional goals and mission motivates how partners are sought for strategic partnership. This chapter aims to group the motivations behind partnerships into four themes, each of which involves particular roles for leaders and operates differently depending on context and organizational mission. The four themes are: economic goals, policy mandates, value alignment and strategic leadership. The involvement of individuals from various organizational levels provides the opportunity to create the team roles advocated by Bensimon and Neumann that can best support burgeoning partnerships. Leadership is central when developing new partnerships. Being intentional in seeking partners can support organizational alignment and forestall some of the biggest barriers to partnering.
