College graduations have come to an end, and it’s not just the students who are breathing sighs of relief as the semester concludes.

The most jubilant group, albeit without mortarboards to toss in the air (they might have to settle for toupees), are college presidents. This spring has seen tension and dissent simmering on many campuses, placing these well-paid administrators in challenging positions.

Students have staged protests, camped out, spoken up, and even walked out, causing a stir nationwide.

The demonstrations have led to arrests, injuries, property damage, and perhaps most frustrating for college presidents, negative publicity.

Pictures and videos from these events evoke a sense of déjà vu for those who remember protests on college campuses from a bygone era. While the issues may have evolved, the fervor and determination motivating students to risk their education and safety remain unchanged. The young people protesting are prepared to put everything on the line for what they believe in, posing a formidable challenge for those in power.

Adding to the woes of these pampered presidents is the historical precedent that often vindicates the actions of protesting students. Looking back at past student protests on issues such as the Vietnam War, racial injustice, and apartheid in South Africa, it’s evident that the angry student was often on the right side of history.

Summer has given the leaders of colleges and universities a reprieve. They’ll have time to think about their actions and better ways to engage their students who voice dissent.