Strategic Human Resources in Higher Education – A Multiple Case Study of Chief Human Resources Officers in Higher Education Institutions as They Elevate Human Resources and Lead in Times of Sweeping Change

There are pressing issues facing higher education institutions (HEIs). Faculty and staff turnover, remote work, economic recession, changing student demographics, and many other issues are front and center as institutions plan to move forward on a positive trajectory. This study examines how the Human Resources (HR) function within a university can positively affect the success and sustainability of the institution. The framework for the study utilizes several theories - Ulrich’s HR Model (Ulrich, 1997), Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (Maslow, 1943), and Goleman’s Theory of Emotional Intelligence (Goleman, 1995). This qualitative multi-case study examines how HR in HEIs has incorporated a strategic focus, the necessary areas of focus for strategic HR in HEIs in today’s complex and ever-changing landscape, and how Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) have developed and implemented HR strategies to address the current HR-related challenges their institutions face