Consider the following features when evaluating the institution:
Mission: Do you identify with the institution's mission? Do you have sufficient skills to forward that mission?
Size and location: Do you prefer rural or urban life? Do you prefer working in a large multi-campus institution or are you comfortable in a smaller setting?
History of the institution: Is the institution's history consonant with your goals and ideals? Can you happily become part of that history?
Support: It is critical to have the support of the board of trustees. Do you have broad-based support within the institution? Without it, your job will be very difficult.
Financial status: Is the institution in deficit? How is it financed? Are there resources for growth, or will you need to develop strategies for cost containment?
In order to succeed in a first presidency, your inner goals and preferences must correspond to -- and compliment -- the institution's character.
Only you can decide whether the fit is better at an HBCU or a traditionally White institution. However, your choice should not be based on whether the' institution is an HBCU or a TWI because both will require the same preparation.
After performing your self-inventory and an accurate assessment of the institution, you should be in a good position to judge whether the opportunity offers both you and the institution the optimum chance to succeed.
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