Shared Governance

Definition and Philosophy

Pursuant to BOR Bylaw 2.7 Shared Governance, all institutions in the UH System will be governed by a principle of shared governance, which is a structured decision-making process in which the Board of Regents exercises ultimate authority and responsibility for institutional oversight, financial stewardship, and policy implementation, while allowing for appropriate consultation with faculty, administrators, and other stakeholders on matters related to academic policy and institutional operations. The principle of shared governance is not to be construed to diminish the authority of the Board to make final decisions in the best interest of the institution, students, and taxpayers.

All administrators at institutions of the UH System must make decisions in a manner that promotes efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to state priorities, workforce needs, and the institution's institutional mission. Faculty and staff may provide recommendations on academic matters and administrative/operational, but that input is only advisory in nature, ensuring that the Board of Regents and institutional leadership retain clear and ultimate decision-making authority. Shared governance structures are not to be used to obstruct, delay, or undermine necessary institutional reforms or serve as a mechanism for advancing ideological or political agendas.

Shared Governance Structure

There are three representative groups that make up our shared governance structure: Faculty Council, University Staff Association, and Student Government.  These three groups, made up of elected and/or appointed representatives, are advisory in nature and are the avenues through which consultation is done, and any recommendations are made as part of shared governance.

Divisional, College, and Departmental Advisory Groups

The above definition does not preclude or change the various advisory groups and committees established for specific divisional, departmental, academic or operational needs. These groups are to ensure that any recommendations have input from their respective stakeholders. They remain advisory in nature and are at the discretion of the responsible division vice president or college dean.

Similarly, ad-hoc committees or task forces may be established as needed by university leadership. These are for a specific purpose and have a timeframe in which they will operate and dissolve.