Governance and Leadership

Madison College follows a practice of Shared Governance that promotes participation, partnership, and a renewed commitment to excellence among employees at every level. Shared governance is founded on the cornerstone principles of cooperation, fairness, responsibility and ownership. It demonstrates a shift from “directive” to “facilitative” – respecting and allowing for the merits of different viewpoints and new ways of thinking. Together, these principles form a culturally sensitive and empowering framework that leads to workable and accountability-based decisions that contribute to the college’s success.

It is in the spirit of “We are all in this together” that every member of the Madison College community works toward a common goal: student success. It is also the goal of shared governance to consider different perspectives and new ways of thinking. At Madison College, we use interest-based problem solving (IBPS) to support responsible decisions that benefit our entire college.

Our Shared Governance model draws upon the expertise and experience of every part of our college community. Using IBPS, we strive to make our best collective decisions. We also promote shared responsibility for college-wide policies, strategies, and priorities.

Shared Governance Bodies

The College Assembly is charged with overseeing the entire Shared Governance system. It makes recommendations on select policy matters to the President. It is also the main body to work on strategic planning and resource sharing.

The eight councils make recommendations on specific issues to the College Assembly.

• Academic Council
• Diversity & Community Relations Council
• Professional Development Council
• Facilities Planning and Investment Council
• Finance Council
• Information Technology Council
• Institutional Effectiveness Council
• Student Affairs Council

Task forces or workgroups may also be used to analyze and make recommendations on issues to a specific council or the Assembly.

Communication

Open communication is the key to authentic shared governance. It’s important to be heard, but also to listen with respect to all points of view. Making sure every member of our community is well informed about decisions and developments helps us all prosper.

The goal is to provide every member of our college community a voice and to work together to achieve student success.

Let your voice be heard. Send Issues, interests, and options via email sharedgovernance@madisoncollege.edu.

"Interest-Based Problem Solving is a shift from an authoritative posture to one of shared authority and responsibility- up and down throughout this organization. I believe this makes us stronger... and I believe it is the right thing to do."

-Dr. Jack E. Daniels III, Madison College President

Interest-Based Problem Solving (IBPS) is a tool that emphasizes respect and innovation in finding solutions to workplace challenges. The process creates positive options for students, faculty, and staff and can be used at all levels of Madison College.

Here are ways in which Madison College actively uses IBPS practices:

• Shared governance in policy decision-making
• Timely and effective conflict resolution
• Consistent resolution of department issues
• Coaching of managers and supervisors

Madison College's IBPS practices allow the entire college community to be part of progressive solutions to myriad issues, helping distinguish the college as a leader in this area.

Principles of IBPS

• Separate the people from the problem
• Focus on interests, not positions
• Generate multiple options
• Evaluate solutions based on objective criteria and interests

Questions Asked in an IBPS Session

• What is the issue?
• How did this problem arise?
• What are our interests, hopes, and concerns?
• What are potential options and solutions?
• What are the best options?
• How will outcomes be affected by our decision?
• How and when will we follow up on the solution?

Learn More

For more information on IBPS or Facilitation Skills training and how it can be used in your department, contact Employee Learning and Organizational Development at elod@madisoncollege.edu or 608.249.6900.

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