Academics on boards--let's debunk some myths.

• Author: Monahan, Thomas F.
• Position: DIRECTOR RECRUITING

A number of preconceived notions exist regarding the efficacy of academics en public boards. Are these truly myths, or do differences in the academic vs. corporate environments male it improbable for most academicians to make significant positive contributions to public board deliberations?

Myth or Truth: Academics can add diversity to the boardroom. Truth! However, one has to understand their meaning of diversity. Academia attracts fairly large numbers of diverse faculty in terms of the two critical areas of gender and race; yet, one of the key elements that academics bring to the boardroom is diversity in thought process. Through their years of working on research projects, academics tend to have a different approach to problem solving than typical business executives. This diversity can be valuable in board discussions where innovative solutions are sought in solving problems. Racial and gender diversity certainly bring different perspectives to discussions; however, the academic research process itself can also bring a diversity of thought that can be valuable in board deliberations.

Boardroom Tip: Look for thought leaders in academic disciplines that meet the needs of your board.

Myth or Truth: The best experience for academicians to serve on public boards is through senior administrative roles (e.g., president or college dean). Truth! It is true that administrative experience in a "tenure based" teaching environment helps build leadership and persuasiveness skills that would be useful in a board environment Fostering agreement among diverse groups such as faculty, administration, alumni, and students in driving strategic goals requires strong leadership and communication skills. However, chairing a large dynamic college department, driving curricula change in a university setting, or leading research efforts to discover innovative solutions to real-world problems can also help develop the type of leadership skills that are critical on corporate boards.

Boardroom Tip: Look for faculty who are active in driving change in their institutions and have demonstrated an ability to build consensus around major innovative efforts.

Myth or Truth: Academics are too theoretical and lack the pragmatism necessary for board work. Myth! It is true that most academics have built their careers around understanding theory in their respective fields. Academics view theory as the basis for good decisions and are trained in moving from theory to application...