These guidelines for college and university governing boards concern the selection of and relations with interim college presidents, and are based on interviews with 52 interim presidents, including some who have served in that position more than once, and 20 other college and university personnel in 20 states. An introductory section outlines eight specific suggestions based on salient findings of the study: a clear and timely selection process; early decisions concerning expectations about the interim president's role; appointing a person who would not likely be a candidate for permanent president; exploring a variety of sources for candidates; limiting major objectives for this position; delegating real responsibility; examining the successful elements of previous search procedures; and ensuring that the interim president is firmly in control before starting the search for a permanent president. These recommendations are explored further in subsequent sections, which offer specific procedural suggestions for the search process, advice for interim presidents from those who have occupied the position, and a discussion of the advantages and opportunities that interim presidencies afford to higher education systems. Appended materials include information about the interviewees and a list of tips from previous interim presidents. (Contains 18 references.) (MSE)