July 24, 2011

Communication and Shared Purpose Help Inspire Confidence in Campus Leaders

Communication and Shared Purpose Help Inspire Confidence in Campus Leaders 1

Sid Hastings for The Chronicle

James D. Evans (left), president of Lindenwood U., talks with Jason D. Lively, chair of the Faculty Council, who says he likes the university's system of faculty contracts rather than tenure: "It's a great place to work, and it's getting better every single year."

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close Communication and Shared Purpose Help Inspire Confidence in Campus Leaders 1

Sid Hastings for The Chronicle

James D. Evans (left), president of Lindenwood U., talks with Jason D. Lively, chair of the Faculty Council, who says he likes the university's system of faculty contracts rather than tenure: "It's a great place to work, and it's getting better every single year."

By Sara Hebel

Faculty and staff members at Lindenwood University have seen what a difference a president can make.

Under James D. Evans, who was a provost, dean, and psychology professor at the Missouri university before becoming its president, in 2007, employees say they feel empowered and valued. The president's collegial style stands in contrast to that of his predecessor, whom many credit with saving the private university from financial ruin, but who showed little regard for shared