The Fate of External Candidates When inside Candidates Vie for Administrative Positions in Higher Education

Abstract

Three methods were employed to assess how the presence of one or more inside candidates affects the outcome of the search process for administrative positions in higher education. Methods included an analysis of appointments and resignations in the Chronicle of Higher Education, a survey questionnaire sent to chairs of search committees, and an analysis of data from the College and University Personnel Association (CUPA) annual surveys. Results indicated a strong preference for hiring inside candidates for most administrative positions, with the exception of the presidency. The higher the level of the administrative position, the stronger the preference to appoint an inside candidate. The CUPA data indicated that an inside candidate will be hired between one-third and one-half the time for positions ranging from chair to vice president. The questionnaire data suggested greater preference towards inside candidates in doctoral degree-granting institutions than institutions that grant only master's or bachelor's degrees.