The Quest for Diversity in Christian Higher Education: Building Institutional Governance Capacity

Abstract

Social justice pertaining to diversity issues in higher education grips the nation, yet Christian higher education (CHE) has moved slowly to address the diversity in our institutions and society. Christian higher education faces the same challenges with growing diversity as secular higher education. Diversity impacts every aspect of institutional life from student enrollment, faculty engagement, and curricular development to board governance and institutional outcomes. Research has focused on disparities in CHE in areas ranging across access, enrollment, graduation rates, faculty diversity, and administrative leadership. Yet, there has been limited inquiry into the role of governing boards in addressing diversity from a comprehensive, institutional perspective. This article examines the intersection of diversity, social justice, and governance in the context of Christian higher education. The authors argue the institution's theological foundations provide a strong biblical and moral rationale for addressing diversity-related social justice. Furthermore, strong institutional leadership is important as diversity takes a more central role in shaping the institution's identity, reputation, and ultimate effectiveness in preparing students to live and work in increasingly diverse contexts. Building board capacity is critical for Christian higher education institutions to effectively embrace diversity as an integral part of their institutional mission, values and ethos, and commitment to justice.