Candidate for
Trustee; Miracosta Community College District; Trustee Area 3

Along with my fellow trustees, I strongly endorse the concept of "Shared Governance", a supportive campus environment that embraces a group effort to define and realize the college's overall vision.

MCC's system of shared governance is unique among the state's community colleges, and remarkably successful. This system empowers all elements within the college community--faculty, staff, student body, and administration. It gives them the duty and responsibility for developing programs, establishing procedures, setting priorities, reviewing performance, and, in general, implementing the broad policies established by the governing board.

It can be difficult for individual members of the campus community to maintain enthusiasm over time when faced with the extra responsibilities and commitments required by a shared governance system. This is especially true if their efforts are continually overruled by administration or the board. The challenge for trustees is to remain a "policy board" and forgo the constant temptation to delve into micromanagement. Shared governance requires that each board member represent the interests of the entire community, and not just one group on campus. It requires a truly collegial and collaborative effort to find consensus on both the overall vision for the college, and the process and program for reaching that vision.

MiraCosta College is successful because everyone is made an important part of the team.