ABSTRACT
In a report for the American Council on Education, J. S. Gagliardi et al., indicated approximately 85% of presidents in 2016 came from within academe, which emphasizes the importance placed on having experience within the academy in order to lead an academic institution. This report highlights that 75% of public and 74% of private institution presidents were recruited from other institutions, reinforcing the claims of outsider bias when seeking someone to lead the institution. For the traditional academic path to the presidency, one begins with an assistant professorship at a reputable institution of higher education. For both Dr. J. Genshaft and Dr. Beverly Warren the provost position was the position held immediately prior to their respective presidencies and taking the traditional path was important for gaining a broad understanding of the academic mission of the institution. Depending on one’s path to the presidency there are varying levels of and opportunities for individuals to make challenging and difficult decisions.
