Leadership Challenges of Urban Institutions of Higher Learning, Which Serve a Predominantly Diverse and Multi-cultural Student Population

Abstract

The topic of this research article examines the unique leadership challenges confronted by staff and faculty of higher education institutions that serve a predominantly diverse and multi-cultural student population in urban areas of the United States. Urban colleges and universities are found in the large metropolitan cities of the United States where students are from the area, as well as domestic and international. The study isolates five areas of concern that raise leadership challenges for these institutions of higher learning. Specific areas of challenge are the rising cost of tuition, retention, student preparedness for higher education, technology, and gainful employment. The exploratory research within this study was conducted primarily in the New York tri-state area. It is qualitative in nature and conclusions are based on research and observations of subjects directly affiliated with these institutions.