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For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Chris Jacobs
Joe Brenckle
media@AGB.org
202-776-0846
WASHINGTON, DC (March 24, 2025)—The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) is proud to announce the release of its latest publication, A Guide to Strategic Board Retreats in Higher Education. This timely resource equips higher education governing boards with practical strategies to maximize the impact of board retreats and align institutional governance with strategic priorities.
As colleges and universities face mounting challenges—from financial sustainability to student success and shared governance—board retreats serve as a critical opportunity for trustees to step back from daily operations and focus on their institution’s long-term trajectory. The new publication provides actionable insights, guiding boards in facilitating effective retreats that drive meaningful discussions and informed decision-making.
“This book is an essential resource for board members and institutional leaders who recognize the importance of strategic governance,” said Ross Mugler, AGB board chair and acting president and CEO. “At a time when higher education faces unprecedented disruption, governing boards must be more intentional than ever in how they approach leadership and decision-making. A well-planned board retreat can be a transformative experience, setting the stage for long-term institutional success.”
Key topics in the book include:
- Fundamentals of Effective Board Retreats—Identifying best practices for planning, facilitation, and execution.
- Strategic Direction Setting—Using retreats to refine mission, vision, and institutional priorities.
- Financial Sustainability—Approaching long-term financial planning beyond annual budgets.
- Equity, Inclusion, and Freedom of Speech—Navigating these sensitive yet crucial conversations.
- Governance and Shared Responsibility—Clarifying roles and fostering effective board engagement.
- Board and Presidential Assessments—Using retreats to connect to strategic goals.
- External Engagement—Strengthening relationships with key institutional stakeholders.
- Advancing Student Success—Ensuring student achievement remains a core board priority.
Featuring insights from leading governance experts, A Guide to Strategic Board Retreats in Higher Education offers a blueprint for transforming board retreats into powerful strategic sessions that position institutions for long-term success.
The book is available for purchase through AGB, with complimentary digital access for members. To learn more or to order a copy, visit https://agb.org/product/a-guide-to-strategic-board-retreats-in-higher-education/.
About AGB
At the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), we believe in the power of higher education to transform lives, strengthen inclusive democracy, and support a thriving society. We believe that strong higher education starts with great governing boards. AGB provides advocacy, leading practices, educational resources, expert support, and renowned programs that advance board excellence for 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations. For more than 100 years, AGB has been the trusted authority for board members, chief executives, board professionals, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership. Learn more at AGB.org.
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