This book presents a comprehensive approach to the presidential search for institutions of higher education. Beginning with the premise that each institution must tailor the search to its own needs and circumstances, the book offers options and guidelines in nine chapters. The first chapter reviews initial steps including the size, composition, and charge of the search committee; the use of consultants; and interim presidents. The second chapter reviews criteria formulation, analysis of the institution's needs, and development of leadership criteria. The third chapter describes how to organize the committee itself, touching on staff and office, chairperson, procedures, legal issues, communications, cost, confidentiality, and records. The fourth chapter discusses the development of a pool of applicants. The fifth chapter addresses initial steps for those applicants, including screening and other checks such as references and initial interviews. The sixth chapter treats aspects of interviews such as scheduling, the interview team, questions, and assessing results. Chapter 7 suggests ways to conduct the selection among finalists; suggestions include campus visits, educating the candidates, and rigorous background checks. The eighth chapter looks at the actual appointment from several institutional levels. The final chapter discusses the institutional transition and how to close the process. Appendixes contain extensive exhibits, samples, and a listing of 11 resources. (JB)