Town and Gown: The Power Structure of a University Town

Abstract

The power structure of a university town studied by reputational and issue history techniques shows that business and governmental institutions and associations dominate education as the most influential agencies in resolving community issues. However, the university is the largest employer and contains a very highly educated leadership reserve. The university is well represented in community affairs by its university officials, but the faculty are underrepresented. Faculty are more commonly engaged in state, national, and international leadership roles than in local participation. An accomodation has been worked out in which the university provides educational service and athletic and cultural entertainment, while the town furnishes economic goods and political leadership.