College and university presidents continue to face strong headwinds. Financial pressures, changes in federal funding, heightened public scrutiny, shared governance dynamics, and cybersecurity concerns contribute to an increasingly complex environment. During our recent webinar, “Higher Ed Outlook Series: Lessons in Resilient Leadership,” Rachel Pauletti, national practice leader for the Higher Education Consulting team at Forvis Mazars, and Dr. Kyle Farmbry, research professor at George Washington University’s Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration and former college president, explored how leaders are responding to these evolving challenges.
As a TIAA Institute Fellow, Dr. Farmbry recently conducted research for the TIAA Institute1 by speaking with 15 college presidents about the current state of higher education. The findings suggest the sector is at a crossroads, with average presidential tenure now closer to five to six years. The discussion highlights three themes that can support leadership resilience and help institutions move forward.
Resilience Reflects the Ability to Move Forward Through Adversity
Resilience is often associated with avoiding disruption. However, conversations with these leaders point to a different perspective: resilience reflects the ability to respond to challenges and continue moving forward. Today’s presidents regularly navigate shifting political landscapes, financial pressures, and institutional demands.
Supporting resilience may involve providing leaders with access to resources, peer networks, and institutional alignment designed to help them adapt and respond effectively. In this environment, resilience becomes an ongoing process shaped by learning, responsiveness, and forward-looking leadership.
Boards Play an Important Role in Supporting Leadership
Board dynamics can influence leadership stability. In some cases, trustees may not have direct experience in higher education, which can create gaps in understanding institutional priorities. At the same time, external perspectives can bring valuable insight.
Effective governance is often characterized by collaboration, clear roles, and a shared focus on long-term priorities. Boards that maintain strategic alignment while supporting presidential leadership can help create an environment where leaders are positioned to focus on institutional direction and stakeholder needs. This balanced approach is aligned with fostering clarity and building confidence across the institution.
Leadership Sustainability Remains a Growing Concern
The scope of the college presidency has expanded significantly in recent decades. As responsibilities continue to evolve, the demands placed on leaders may contribute to shorter tenures and increased turnover.
When leadership transitions occur frequently, institutions may encounter challenges in sustaining momentum on key initiatives and maintaining continuity. Supporting leadership sustainability may involve strengthening governance practices, encouraging ongoing trustee education, and fostering environments that help leaders navigate complexity with confidence.
How Forvis Mazars Can Help
Higher education institutions have an opportunity to reflect on how they support leadership in a changing environment. Strengthening governance practices, investing in trustee development, and cultivating strategic organizational design can contribute to a more resilient institution and adversity-ready leaders.
At Forvis Mazars, our professionals work alongside higher education leaders to provide insights and perspectives designed to help you prepare for what’s next. Through collaboration and a deeper understanding of your institution’s priorities, we can support your efforts to navigate change and move forward with confidence. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us.
- 1“Mission Critical: Presidents’ Perspectives on How Universities Serve Society in Turbulent Times,” tiaa.org, July 2025.