University Leadership and Public Policy in the Twenty-First Century

"Peter MacKinnon's book is a major contribution to a much-needed discussion on the current status and future role of public universities and of the public policy required to position them for success. MacKinnon writes from the perspective of a distinguished actor within the system of higher education, and his conclusions are frank and provocative." -- Stephen Toope, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of British Columbia (2006-14) "This is an impressive book - well written, well organized, and highly readable." -- Ian Clark, School of Public Policy and Governance, University of Toronto, and former president of the Council of Ontario Universities

Drawing on more than a decade of service as president of one of Canada’s major research universities, Peter MacKinnon offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges involved in bringing students, faculty, and governments together in the pursuit of excellence.

Canadian universities face a complicated and uncertain future when it comes to funding, governance, and fostering innovation. Their leaders face an equally complicated future, attempting to balance the needs and desires of students, faculty, governments, and the economy. Drawing on more than a decade of service as president of one of Canada’s major research universities, Peter MacKinnon offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges involved in bringing those constituencies together in the pursuit of excellence.

Clear, contentious, and uncompromising, University Leadership and Public Policy in the Twenty-First Century offers a unique and timely analysis of the key policy issues affecting Canada’s university sector. Covering topics such as strategic planning, tuition policy, labour relations, and governance, MacKinnon draws on his experience leading the University of Saskatchewan to argue that Canadian universities must embrace competitiveness and change if they are to succeed in the global race for talent.