Built to Last, Not to Lose

The Q1.2011 issue of Briefings on Talent and Leadership has an excellent article on private equity. The article focuses on firms of various sizes that were "originally formed as disposable entities to pursue ambitious, one-off investment opportunities."

The one-off opportunities, however, grew into multiple opportunities, meaning that the original intent behind many of these companies was altered; they became firms that have sought value and permanence. That's a game-changer.

The parallel for independent schools is this: just as many folks in the business world are looking for private equity firms that are "built to last," so too are parents and donors looking at independent schools that are built to last. With philanthropic dollars given out more sparingly these days, as a school, you have to be on top of your game, or you won't get those dollars. No one likes to give to a loser. Those are harsh words, but they ring true in this economic environment. This economy has been a game-changer for us.

If you want to accomplish grand plans as a school, make sure you get your ducks in a row first. The board needs to be doing the right things at the right time and for the right reasons; so do the Head of School and his/her administrative team, right through the faculty and staff. Alignment had better be good!

Schools need to be built to last, not to lose.