James Ralph Scales : a case study of sixteen years of university leadership

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Roger R. Pearman (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
John Y. Reid

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to identify factors in the leadership of James Ralph Scales during his presidency at Wake Forest University, 1967-1983. The identification of these factors was made through a historical and biographical case study. A second purpose was to compare Scales' leadership factors with those of five selected leadership frameworks. The case study analysis identified Scales' leadership factors as (1) constancy of "fit" between his style, values, and personal history and the style, values, and history of the institution; (2) an unmistakable commitment to the faculty as central to academic excellence; (3) a persistent articulation of the core values of an intellectual community; (4) a tolerance for situations requiring the management of ambiguity; (5) a spirit of magnanimity; (6) an active promotion of a climate of "possibility" through debate and personal initiative; (7) a sense of humor and an attractive physical presence; (8) a habit of person centered communication; and (9) a willingness to take risks because of a trust in the institution's resources.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 1988
Subjects
Scales, James R. $q (James Ralph), $d 1919-
Wake Forest University $x Administration
Wake Forest University $x History
Universities and colleges $z North Carolina $x Administration

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