For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Joe Brenckle
media@AGB.org

WASHINGTON, DC (July 22, 2025)—A new survey shows that the COVID-19 pandemic brought both more duties and changes in working environments for board professionals that have continued in 2025. The survey, conducted every five years by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), polls board professionals from the public, independent, and institutionally related foundation sectors of higher education to capture data on their demographics, roles, responsibilities, and desires for professional development. The survey is focused on how the board professional role has changed over time and shows the critical importance of board professionals as part of higher education and the foundation of shared governance.

“This survey makes clear that board professionals’ expertise is more essential than ever to sustaining effective boards and strong institutions as they continue to take on expanded, more complex governance support roles,” said Lesley McBain, PhD, AGB senior director of research.

The survey report dives into findings on board professional career paths; professional development activities and related interests; as well as key takeaways. The 2025 survey also included a new question regarding “other duties as assigned,” asking respondents to break down the added responsibilities required by board professionals.

“Board professionals are indispensable stewards of effective governance,” said Ross Mugler, AGB board chair and acting president and CEO. “Their expertise, adaptability, and leadership help ensure that boards operate with integrity, purpose, and alignment with institutional mission. In a time when shared governance is more vital than ever, this survey underscores the critical role board professionals play in advancing higher education’s success.”

While many characteristics and challenges of the board professional role have remained constant, results of the 2025 AGB Survey of Board Professionals also reveal how expectations of the role have changed in the last five years. As one respondent put it, “While not for everyone, it is an awesome role.”

Access the full report here.

# # #