Definitions

Our working definition of shared governance was refined multiple times throughout the consultation process. Below you will find each draft as well as the final, approved version.

Initial Draft

Shared governance is a complementary, normative system that facilitates and clarifies the shared responsibility that constituents assume in identifying, aligning, and implementing strategic priorities that advance the university. 

Draft 2 (changes in red)

Shared governance is a normative system that facilitates and clarifies the complementary responsibilities that constituents assume in identifying, aligning, and implementing routine processes and strategic priorities that advance the overall university and promote the common good.

Draft 3 (changes in purple)

Shared governance is a values-based system that facilitates and clarifies the complementary responsibilities that constituents assume in identifying, aligning, and implementing routine processes and strategic priorities. These processes and priorities are meant to advance the overall university and promote the common good.

Draft 4 (changes in blue)

Shared governance is a values-based system that facilitates and clarifies the complementary responsibilities that constituents assume in identifying, aligning, and implementing routine processes and strategic priorities. At Cal Lutheran,this system is designed to advance the university's mission and promote a common good that puts and keeps students first.

Key Terms

• Values-based: The main values that frame Cal Lutheran’s system of shared governance can be thought of as “Triple T,” “Double C,” “E.”  
• The three Ts are trust, transparency, timeliness. The two Cs are collaboration and communication. And the E is equity.
• Complementary responsibilities: This is a set of related responsibilities that, when assumed, complete the decision-making process.
• These responsibilities include: providing input, making recommendations, formulating a decision, granting approval, exercising veto.
• At Cal Lutheran, the TFSG has developed a comprehensive ADRI chart that delineates these responsibilities. The version of the ADRI chart posted on this website was officially endorsed by the Board of Regents in May 2021. It is subject to change, update, and/or revisions as deemed necessary by the president.
• Constituents: This term refers to an individual or group recognized as having the training, expertise, and/or experience to participate — at a specific level — in a specific decision.