Faculty involvement in decision-making within Florida's State University System: Understanding perception, role, and participation in shared governance

Author

• Elaine R. Mitchum, University of North FloridaFollow

Year

2025

Season

Fall

Paper Type

Doctoral Dissertation

College

College of Education and Human Services

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD)

Department

Education

NACO controlled Corporate Body

University of North Florida. Department of Leadership, School Counseling & Sports Management

Committee Chairperson

Dr. Amanda Pascale

Second Advisor

Dr. Pamela Williamson

Rights Statement

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Third Advisor

Dr. Elizabeth Hale

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Barbara Darby

Department Chair

Dr. David Hoppey

College Dean

Dr. Daniel Dinsmore

Abstract

Shared governance is the collaborative responsibility of faculty, administrators, and governing boards to guide institutional decision-making in colleges and universities. Faculty participation is essential in high-stakes decisions, as their disciplinary expertise and practical experience help ensure that policies align with academic values and long-term institutional goals. This qualitative case study examines faculty perceptions, roles, and participation in shared governance across the twelve institutions within the State University System (SUS) of Florida. Guided by four research questions, the study explored: (1) how faculty describe shared governance; (2) how perceptions of their role vary; (3) how recent events within the Florida SUS shape participation; and (4) how faculty envision an ideal governance process. Data were collected through surveys and individual interviews with tenure and tenure-track faculty representing diverse ranks, disciplines, and demographic backgrounds. Florida’s public universities were selected due to their reliance on state funding and their recent exposure to legislative changes affecting higher education. Findings suggest that shared governance within the SUS may be under strain. Participants reported concerns about political interference, diminished transparency, administrative compliance with external pressures, and erosion of faculty authority. Many expressed hesitation to voice concerns and perceived limited influence over institutional decisions. Despite these challenges, faculty participants continue to value shared governance and express optimism for strengthening collaborative decision-making processes in the future.

Suggested Citation

Mitchum, Elaine R., "Faculty involvement in decision-making within Florida's State University System: Understanding perception, role, and participation in shared governance" (2025). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1398.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/1398