Abstract
This article reflects on the evolving relationship between administrators and arts educators in higher education. Once marked by misunderstanding and tension, these groups increasingly recognized the arts as a vital resource for institutional success. Anecdotes illustrate how strong arts programs became assets in recruiting distinguished faculty, attracting top-level students, and appealing to parents seeking well-rounded educational opportunities. The arts also played growing roles in alumni relations and fundraising, demonstrating their ability to enhance institutional prestige and financial support. The discussion emphasizes that administrators came to view the arts much like athletics—an area with broad value for visibility, engagement, and development. The article concludes that this shift fostered greater appreciation and more substantial support for arts programs, underscoring their strategic importance to colleges and universities.
Recommended Citation
Distler, Paul A.
(1987)
"So the Football Team Was 10-2! How Are the Fine Arts Here?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 60, Article 8.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol60/iss1/8
