Lessons From the Field: Leading Institutional Change From the Middle

Abstract

Leading community college change initiatives from midlevel leadership positions is challenging. This chapter reviews the experiences of two midlevel leaders who led change on their campuses. They describe the work of their leadership efforts, including their relationships with faculty, administrators, students, and the challenges, rewards, and lessons learned.

Challenges in Implementing and Sustaining Community College Organizational Change for Student Success

“…Most success-based conversations take place at the program or department level. Often only a few faculty and staff get invited to participate on institutional-level committees and conversations (Chase et al, 2021;Conrad & LeMay, 2020). Cross-institutional talents and perspectives are needed for organizational change (Kezar, 2018;Lester, 2020).…”

“…Cross-institutional talents and perspectives are needed for organizational change (Kezar, 2018;Lester, 2020). Even when faculty and staff are invited to the conversations, the conversations too often focus on gaining buy-in rather than seeking their engagement, input, and perspectives (Chase et al, 2021;Conrad & LeMay, 2020;Kadlec, 2020).…”

“…In much of the current research and public scholarship, the notion of leadership, or the lack of it, is a contextual construct that can derail change efforts especially large-scale guided pathways change (Chase et al, 2021;Conrad & LeMay, 2020;Fay et al, 2021;Guth, 2017;Wyner, 2021). Over the last several years, specific research has emerged on the contextual leadership challenges facing senior leaders who lead and manage organizational change reform including guided pathways.…”

“…Based on the literature, lack of awareness of the need for or how to change along with a lack of motivation or resistance to change within institutions can create significant roadblocks for colleges (Bailey et al, 2015;Chase et al, 2021;Conrad & LeMay, 2020;Fay et al, 2021;Guth, 2017;Kezar, 2018;Klempin & Karp, 2018;McNair et al, 2016;VanWagoner, 2018;Walleser, 2018;White, 2022b). Not all community college leaders, faculty, staff, and administrators are aware of the need for organizational change efforts and even if they are aware, many may not know how to lead change or be motivated to engage in change efforts (White, 2022b).…”

“…Many mid-level leaders, faculty, and front-line staff may not be aware that there is a need for organizational change reform or, if they are aware, they may lack an understanding of how to make the necessary changes (Bailey et al, 2015;Chase et al, 2021;Conrad & LeMay, 2020;Rife & Conner, 2017;White, 2022b). The role of mid-level leaders, faculty, and front-line staff is different from senior leaders.…”