When The Corporate Storm Strikes The Academy: Faculty Response Required

Abstract

When the corporate storm strikes the academy, faculty must be willing and able to repel administrative assaults upon academic freedom, shared governance, and tenure. This paper will describe the on-going clash between administrators who embrace the corporate mindset and faculty who cherish traditions of shared governance and collegial decision-making. The corporate model of management will be contrasted with the shared governance model. A brief explanation of those forces that fueled the corporate takeover will be provided. Lastly, suggestions for faculty action designed to halt/slow down the eroding force of corporatization will be shared.