This case study investigated the organizational culture of a community college and how it both contributed to and prevented organizational chaos during a period of change. The study made use of themes from William G. Golding's novel, "Lord of the Flies," to analyze the setting. The period of change started with the arrival of several top administrators from outside the community who brought a different organizational approach. The clashes between this group and the local group ultimately led five of the outside administrators to leave within 3 months forcing another type of organizational crisis. Data for the study were collected through archival sources and by a participant observer who conducted interviews and attended meetings. The study found that the conflicts between the values of the two groups and their inability to come together led to a disintegration of the organizational structure. The study concluded that: (1) higher education leaders must understand the role that culture plays in their organizations; (2) leaders must realize that though they are important they are only participants; (3) as participants they must recognize their moral obligations in a democratic society. Included are 15 references. (JB)