Department Chairs Develop Critical Skills to Ensure Student Success

Contact:
Kellee Edmonds
(202) 478-4662
[email protected]

WASHINGTON, January 9, 2025−A study by the University Council for Educational Administration found that 67% of department chairs reported receiving no formal training for their position, and yet their duties are critical for academic and institutional effectiveness.

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is addressing the pressing need to equip department chairs with the tools to succeed through its Department Chair Leadership Institute. Today, 32 higher education professionals are in Washington, D.C., for two days of training and skills building as part of the third DCLI cohort.

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is addressing the pressing need to equip department chairs with the tools to succeed through its Department Chair Leadership Institute. Today, 32 higher education professionals are in Washington, D.C., for two days of training and skills building as part of the third DCLI cohort.

The cohort will hear from seasoned presidents, provosts, and national thought leaders who will share their expertise on topics including centering the academic mission and supporting student success, advancing excellence through effective leadership communication, and leading as a chair.

"We know the department chair position is one of the most challenging positions on campus, and through DCLI, AASCU is responding to the professional development needs of these critical administrators," said Charles L. Welch, AASCU president and CEO. "With each new DCLI cohort, we are providing these front-line campus leaders with peer support, networking, and strategic insights to strengthen their leadership acumen and help them succeed."

The program is made possible with support from Academic Search. Richard Helldobler, president of William Paterson University (NJ), is the institute's executive sponsor and lead faculty member.

Following the in-person session, the cohort will participate in virtual sessions throughout the spring semester.

View a full list of participants.

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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underrepresented student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions' economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America's promise.