Departmental relationships and images within the university

Abstract

It is contended that the foremost condition for the survival and ultimate success of departments is the development of qualitatively superior images and relationships within the university, and that excellence at that level must normally precede or accompany significant recognition at regional, national, and international scales. Aggressive participation by geographers is advocated in matters involving relationships with other disciplines, the university decision‐making process, concerns of students, alumni and developmental activities, and creation of a superior curriculum. A series of operational principles, called ‘bewares’, is suggested to guide the internal management of departments that seek excellence at any level.