The Nature of Innovation and Change at Public Research Universities

American higher education had been relatively uncontested for a long time. Today, however, other higher education systems that are more adaptable—and emphasize science and technology over the liberal arts—are catching up. The scarcity of public resources and the increasing public scrutiny of the value of higher education challenge universities to undergo serious organizational changes. Traditional approaches to organizational change are not sufficient to respond to the new realities public research institutions face. The leaders of public institutions are challenged to establish and foster innovative universities that can withstand the challenges of rapidly changing higher education landscape. Leaders should consider a shift in the traditional ways of thinking and commit to building on existing strengths of the institution and implement innovative practices. By utilizing the positive organizational development and innovation theory, leaders can transform public research universities to remain relevant in today's tumultuous environment. Change is not enough—a truly innovative transformation in the public research university is required.