Faculty roles in supporting new deans and directors

Although the topic is not frequently addressed in the literature, faculty members are influential in leadership transitions within colleges. New leaders are chosen for their experience; vision; and ability to work with faculty, students, staff, and upper-level administrators to clarify and implement their vision for academic departments, schools, or colleges. However, a degree of uncertainty is involved when people learn to work with each other. Faculty play an important role in facilitating interactions and enhancing leader success. This article describes strategies faculty can use during these transitions.