It’s not possible to avoid commentary from all corners on the Penn State scandal this week with the removal of the Joe Paterno statue and the NCAA sanctions levied on the university. Let’s focus very specifically here though on the leadership aspect. Particularly, leadership communication.
Compare the thoughtful statement from current president Rodney Erickson regarding the decision to remove the Paterno statue with the statements of past president Graham Spanier as depicted in the Freeh Report.
Former president Spanier was described in the Freeh Report as “A President who discouraged discussion and dissent.” President Spanier did not notify the Board of ongoing investigations or reported incidents. When asked by a board member if they would be briefed after reports of investigations were published in the newspaper Spanier did not brief them. When the board forced the ouster of a VP and the Athletics Director Spanier edited the press release indicating that they voluntarily were leaving.
Leadership is a lonely job. However there is much council available. Those around the leader will support the leader if they are aware of the issues and understand the decision making thought process of the leader. President Spanier used his position to insulate information and decision making. He lost his job and will likely be criminally prosecuted.
For Penn State to get past this horrific scandal as an institution many changes must occur. High on the list of necessary changes is an openness of leadership. Some over use the word transparency. Without trying to clarify and agree on a definition of that word simply explaining the basis for decisions to your constituents provides a positive accountability for the leader and contributes to the support from those constituents.
This week’s decision by now President Erickson shows a step in the right direction.
President Erickson knowing that all decisions made in this highly volatile and emotional environment will not please every constituent explains his thinking. President Spanier conversely used his positional power to bluster past queries from his board of directors.
In his statement regarding his decision to remove the statue President Erickson acknowledges the differing opinions and laid out his reason for action.
“With the release of Judge Freeh’s Report of the Special Investigative Counsel, we as a community have had to confront a failure of leadership at many levels. The statue of Joe Paterno outside Beaver Stadium has become a lightning rod of controversy and national debate, including the role of big time sports in university life. The Freeh Report has given us a great deal to reflect upon and to consider, including Coach Paterno’s legacy.
Throughout Penn State, the two most visible memorials to Coach Paterno are the statue at Beaver Stadium and the Paterno Library. The future of these two landmarks has been the topic of heated debate and many messages have been received in various University offices, including my own. We have heard from numerous segments of the Penn State community and others, many of whom have differing opinions. These are particularly important decisions when considering things that memorialize such a revered figure.
I now believe that, contrary to its original intention, Coach Paterno’s statue has become a source of division and an obstacle to healing in our University and beyond. For that reason, I have decided that it is in the best interest of our university and public safety to remove the statue and store it in a secure location. I believe that, were it to remain, the statue will be a recurring wound to the multitude of individuals across the nation and beyond who have been the victims of child abuse.”
He also explains his decisions to leave the Paterno name on the library.
“On the other hand, the Paterno Library symbolizes the substantial and lasting contributions to the academic life and educational excellence that the Paterno family has made to Penn State University. The library remains a tribute to Joe and Sue Paterno’s commitment to Penn State’s student body and academic success, and it highlights the positive impacts Coach Paterno had on the University. Thus I feel strongly that the library’s name should remain unchanged.”
Erickson recognizes that his decision is not popular with everyone but goes on record so the reaction can be shaped by his words.
“I fully realize that my decision will not be popular in some Penn State circles, but I am certain it is the right and principled decision. I believe we have chosen a course that both recognizes the many contributions that Joe Paterno made to the academic life of our University, while taking seriously the conclusions of the Freeh Report and the national issue of child sexual abuse. Today, as every day, our hearts go out to the victims.”
This type of leadership communication allows for discourse. The leader’s position and thought process are open for analysis. Due to shrouded communication in the past many assume the worst motivations from their leaders. They don’t necessarily understand the thinking and logic behind decisions. Communication that clearly states the why behind decisions is a teaching opportunity. Not everyone will agree with the logic but at the very least the logic is evident. If more information comes from the debate the leader has an easier time adjusting position based on the continuing narrative. Decisions made with the logic buried are not as flexible.