There is no question about it: being a college or university president is hard. And, it is getting harder. These deepening challenges mean the time has come to re-think how we view this critical role in educating the next generation. I believe we need to consider the deployment of a different leadership paradigm for some institutions moving forward: co-presidencies.

This may seem like inviting trouble, but consider these arguments. First, a caveat: this is not a proposal for all institutions; those that are thriving may be willing to consider this as a suitable approach as they consider future presidential succession. Faltering institutions may need a diverse set of skills and find that two people bring more to the table. More “out-of-the-box” institutions may be willing to change their leadership structure.

Why is it important for schools to consider this proposal? Because recent events make it more clear than ever that how we appoint educational leaders and enable their success must change if our institutions are to survive and thrive.

Anticipated and unanticipated issues and events make the role of a college or university president near impossible to perform. No one person has broad enough skill to navigate these waters effectively.

Consider some of the challenges within the campus community, despite the increasing portion of the student population that is aging and non-residential: suicides and student self-mutilation; motor vehicle accidents; minor and major illnesses and injuries; deaths; poor decision-making; risky behavior; anxiety; separation anxiety; divorces, pregnancies and failed relationships. Presidents are pulled into some of the most difficult life issues people in their communities face.

The most daunting set of challenges may be the newest ones rising in our midst, ones that could change the face of higher education permanently.

Read more about the challenges for higher education by Karen Gross at The Aspen Institute.