Effective leadership in college and universities is critical to meeting the needs of students and faculty (Birnbaum, 1992; Rowley & Sherman, 2003). University leaders are often chosen and promoted based on their success in research rather than their managerial experience or knowledge (Yielder & Codling, 2004). However, universities have become much more business-oriented, and while this orientation is controversial, administrative skills and leadership approaches are often learned on the job (Gayle, Tewarie, & White, 2003). There is also surprisingly little research on university leadership. Faculty whose knowledge base is steeped in higher education have the potential and specialized knowledge base to effectively lead programs, research centers, departments, colleges, and universities. However, many faculty, while possessing specialized knowledge about higher education often have little administrative experience and lack knowledge about specific administrative functions and leadership approaches. This position is particularly true for women and people of color who are severely underrepresented in academic leadership positions (Yen, Quinn, Carrigan, Litzler, & Riskin, 2007). These positions are often quite challenging, particularly those positions, such as department chair, which can serve as gateway positions to further leadership positions, while at the same time continuing some faculty expectations of research (Gmelch & Burns, 1993).

This workshop addresses these challenges by engaging faculty members who aspire to move, are moving into, or have moved into leadership positions, including program chairs, center directors, department chairs, dean’s office positions, or higher level positions in discussions around leadership, management, continuing a scholarly agenda, balancing work and family life, conflict resolution, and working with difficult people.