NEWS IN BRIEF December 2025

ARTICLE

Navigating Leadership Transitions: The Value of Search Firms as Trusted Partners

Recruiting forward-thinking leaders who can guide colleges and universities through transition and institutional stress is a growing priority in higher education. Yet a recent survey conducted by AESC in partnership with AGB Search indicates many institutions may be hesitant to hire or they may conduct an internal recruitment process, likely due to challenges such as financial constraints. 


Executive search firms can be a strategic and cost-effective part of the solution by providing essential expertise, expanded capacity, and access to broader candidate networks. Flexible models, such as customized searches, multi-search cost reductions, or extended interim appointments, also offer cost-effective ways to engage with a search firm while maintaining stability and advancing strategic priorities.

VIDEO

Dr. Rod McDavis Celebrates Eight Years with AGB Search

Earlier this year, Dr. Rod McDavis celebrated eight years in the role of AGB Search’s Managing Principal & CEO. In that time, he has witnessed significant changes in higher education, and those changes have had a direct impact on executive search.


Dr. McDavis recently shared his expert insights on higher education executive search, offering tips on preparing to launch a search, professional development for emerging leaders, and supporting the successful transition of an incoming president. 

CELEBRATION

Dedication Held for the Reimagined McCormick Center at Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg

Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg recently celebrated the re-opening of the McCormick Center, named after AGB Search Senior Executive Search Consultant Dr. James H. McCormick. Dr. McCormick served as the university’s president from 1973 to 1983. The McCormick Center features state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation labs, and collaboration spaces designed to enhance learning and prepare for professional success.

AGB Institute for Leadership & Governance Accepting Applications

The AGB Institute for Leadership & Governance is a premier program for aspiring higher education presidents. More than 125 Fellows have participated in the program, and 25 have become presidents or chancellors.


The Institute’s value is rooted in:

  • One-on-one mentoring from higher education leaders during the program and beyond
  • High level networking with peers from across the country
  • Personalized guidance on the executive search process

The Institute is designed for innovative, adaptive leaders who have a passion for higher education and a commitment to shaping the future of the sector.

AGB UPDATE

Stay informed. Stay ahead. 

AGB’s Saturday Summary delivers five essential higher education news headlines each week along with quick context on why they matter for governing boards and institutional leadership. It’s a smart, fast way to stay current on the trends, risks, and opportunities shaping the future of higher education. Subscribe to receive it every Saturday morning.

Then, keep the conversation going in person: registration is now open for the 2026 National Conference on Trusteeship. Join fellow presidents, board members, and board professionals to explore what’s next for higher education leadership.

 
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