Case I: Managing people--the case of the frustrated faculty member

Managing people is a continuing leadership challenge. The foundation discipline for managing people relates to human resource management and faculty development in academic settings. In human resource management, administrators are challenged to balance the needs of individuals and the expectations of the organization for the mutual benefit of both. A primary goal of management is to lead and develop people and manage the organization in alignment with the mission and vision of the organization. The purpose of this paper is, first, to present an overview of human resource management and faculty development fundamentals including motivating, mentoring, and performance counseling. Second, a hypothetical case is presented for readers to apply theory to situation. Finally, the case is analyzed by reviewing central issues and the management concepts that may apply to the scenario. These include managing resources, mentoring, motivation, and development. In this case-based analysis, Dr. Orsten is a junior faculty member employed in a developing school. With a shortage of faculty in her field, she succumbs to the pressures of teaching and administration at the expense of her own professional advancement through research. The tenure clock is ticking, however, and Dr. Orsten has serious doubts about her ability to redirect her priorities and earn tenure. Dr. Hightower, the Associate Dean, also faces a dilemma: there is a shortage of faculty in Dr. Orsten's specialty, and the system is poised to exercise the "up-or-out" option.