Table of Contents 

Features 

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt Your Institution: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Philanthropic Giving
By Kathy Johnson Bowles

Institutions around the country and the world find themselves at risk every day. Unknowingly or knowingly, an institution may hold assets that perpetuate discriminatory viewpoints, sustain the power and privilege of the few, or hold assets gained through subjugation and exploitation of other beings. Some institutions may have assets designed to support inclusivity but are unintentionally discriminatory. This article explores how assets of discriminatory and questionable moral standing are held by institutions and go unchecked, and how institutions can proactively and continuously take measures to support the tenets of diversity, equity, and inclusion in philanthropic giving.

Academic Freedom and Free Speech for Public College and University Faculty
By Scott Cole

Academic freedom and free speech protection for faculty at public higher education institutions can be slightly more tenuous than they are for their counterparts at private institutions. Nevertheless, policies governing free speech and academic freedom may be prudent for any higher education institution— public or private.

A Looming Enrollment Crisis for Midwest Colleges
By Dean Hubbard and John Minter

The demographics of college students are rapidly changing. Midwest colleges are particularly at risk of enrollment declines. To try to better assess an institution’s financial situation, balance sheet financial ratios can provide a high-level, easily understood tool for understanding an institution’s relative health. This article shows how seven ratios across six Midwest institutions highlight how financial ratios can assess institutional financial health.

Sponsored Content

The Role of the Board in Reducing Reputational Risk
By Simon Barker

Departments 

On My Agenda
Strategic Boards Have the Courage for Tough Conversations
By Henry Stoever

News in Brief 
A sampling of national higher education news 

Inside AGB 
AGB announces in-person events:

• Institute for Board Chairs and Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities
• Institute for Foundation Board Chairs and Chief Executives
• 2022 Foundation Leadership Forum

Legal Standpoint
Culture, Core Values, and the Law
By Steve Dunham

Forum
Time for a “Strategy Refresh” for Your University: A Blueprint for Post-Pandemic Priorities
By Paul N. Friga

Foundations of Consequence
The Five Characteristics of Great Foundation Board Members
By Leonard Raley

From the Board Chair
The Existential Crisis Among Small Private Colleges Is Nearly Here
By Sharon Reishus

A Question For… 
Donald Hossler, PhD
What do boards need to understand about enrollment management?
By Elena Loveland