This handy reference will help college leaders diagnose institutional maladies and prescribe remedies before it is too late. Expert contributors offer a bird's-eye view of down-to-earth case studies, making this volume a welcome contribution to understanding the delicate balance between higher education's noble purpose and business realities. -- Richard Ekman, President, Council of Independent Colleges Turnaround offers those concerned about higher education an inventory of the tell-tale signs of vulnerability and practical means for boards and presidents to reverse what can easily become the downward spiral of a college or a university. As Martin and Samels note, turnaround is not easily accomplished, but it can be done. Moreover, the contributors to this volume are some of the most observant students and courageous practitioners of higher education. -- Richard A. Skinner, Senior Vice President for Programs and Research, Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges This book is brimming with helpful strategies from experienced presidents and chancellors as well as excellent researchers. It provides a wealth of ideas for innovative, risk-taking presidents who lead fragile institutions to motivate their constituents to achieve stability and enhance quality in the process. -- Claire Van Ummersen, Vice President, Center for Effective Leadership, American Council on Education

Nearly one thousand colleges and universities in the United States face major challenges-from catastrophic hurricanes to loss of accreditation to sagging enrollment. What can leaders of such at-risk institutions do to improve their situation? Turnaround gives college and university leaders the tools they need to put their fragile institutions back on a path to success. This comprehensive handbook outlines how board members, presidents, and administrators can identify their institutions' weaknesses, implement plans for improvement, and mitigate existing damage. Turnaround also identifies the legal pitfalls that often accompany institutional change, offering solutions for how to overcome such obstacles or avoid them altogether. Evaluating the experiences of two hundred college leaders, the contributors share such critical information as: * 20 indicators of institutional vulnerability * 10 necessary skills for presidents directing a turnaround * 5 characteristics of institutions that have completed successful turnarounds * 10 lessons of successful turnarounds Featuring candid advice from decision makers who have faced severe challenges, Turnaround is a valuable resource for college and university leaders facing tough times.