Ep. 106: Rethinking board governance in theological education

Send us Fan MailWhat actually makes a governing board effective, especially in times of institutional uncertainty, leadership turnover, and rapid change?In Trust Center President Amy Kardash and David Rowe, project director of the Center’s Governance Initiative, discuss of the initiative’s study – the most extensive governance study of ATS-accredited schools. Drawing from research involving more than 1,100 respondents, interviews with presidents and board chairs, and on-site board observations, the research explores the governance practices most closely tied to institutional effectiveness. Kardash and Rowe discuss findings, including that frequent presidential turnover correlates with weaker institutional effectiveness. They discuss how boards can think beyond simply hiring leaders and move toward sustaining them through difficult seasons of change. The discussion also examines how ambiguity around board roles and governance models can undermine effectiveness, while clarity, shared expectations, and intentional board development strengthen institutional leadership. Rather than offering simplistic formulas, the episode invites boards to ask deeper questions about mission stewardship, leadership support, and how governance must evolve to meet the realities facing theological schools today.Links mentioned in the podcast include:A Spring 2026 article about the Governance Initiative’s research.The Governance Initiative webpage, which includes a grant opportunity.