The "Unionization" of College Presidents — Their Response to Faculty Unions

The author explores the impact of faculty organizations at eleven Illinois community colleges, seven of which have union contracts. The response of the college presidents to interactions with faculty organiza tions suggests that presidents view the totality of their relationships with faculty as strategic and a potential influence on the union- management relationship. This, in turn, suggests that bargaining is not confined to the negotiating table. Patterns of strategic response found at various colleges are described. Charles T. Kerchner is Assistant Professor, Education Faculty, Claremont Graduate School. He was formerly Assistant Director for Academic Affairs, Illinois Board of Higher Education.