A deal is a deal--or is it?(Western Michigan University fires Judith Bailey)(Brief article)

Not a day goes by, it seems, without a college or university firing or seeking the resignation of its president, sometimes for cause and sometimes not.

Western Michigan University recently fired President Judith Bailey, citing a breach of contract and unsatisfactory performance. The Board of Trustees listed dipping enrollment, budget deficits and strained faculty relations.

Bailey rebutted the criticism, pointing to a 36% increase in research grants, exceeding fund-raising goals and getting the first increase in state funding since 2001. Just last December, the board had unanimously lauded her performance during a "challenging period" and gave her a 3.5% raise while extending her contract to July 2009.

Bailey suggested that she would fight the firing. "I believe that Western Michigan University deserves a president who has the skill and commitment to lead the university through this difficult period," said Bailey. "I believe I am that person. There are those who disagree. I have a contract with ...