This report presents results of a 1997 survey of the governing boards of independent colleges and universities conducted to identify trends in membership and board policies and practices. Among the highlights are the following: (1) boards average 30 members; (2) 46 percent of boards had conducted a review of their own performance within the past five years; (3) the percentage of males on boards has declined since 1985; (4) the racial and ethnic composition of boards has not changed significantly since 1985; (5) 38 percent of all trustees are aged 50 to 59; (6) almost 42 percent of trustees are business executives; (7) approximately 3 percent of trustees serve as members of other college boards; and (8) approximately 7 percent are members of corporate boards and 11 percent serve on other nonprofit organization boards. Analysis of the 364 responses are presented in text and graphics. Data covers board size and member characteristics, including gender, race/ethnicity, age, and primary occupations. Data on board policies and practices are presented for the following aspects: required members, members serving on other boards, length of terms and limits, meetings, and performance reviews. (DB)