The dean as spiritual leader

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Leadership Studies

Background:

• Medical school deans face unprecedented challenges: high turnover, fiscal distress, and a widening gap between job expectations and reality.
• The role of the dean has significantly evolved, posing threats to the core academic missions of education and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-examine the attributes and skills required for successful medical school deans in the current challenging environment.
• To explore how difficulties can serve as an opportunity to rethink the dean's role and emphasize enduring values.

Main Methods:

• The study uses illustrative stories, anecdotes, and parables to explore the complexities of the dean's role.
• It emphasizes a qualitative approach to understanding the leadership demands and personal attributes needed.

Main Results:

• Current challenges necessitate a reevaluation of the skills and personal qualities essential for deans.
• Deans must embody and champion the core values of medicine and medical education to inspire the academic community.

Conclusions:

• While fiscal and managerial skills are crucial, the spiritual dimension of leadership—rooted in enduring values—is vital for deans.
• Deans must act as "spiritual" leaders, rekindling the spirit of their institutions through personal example and commitment to core principles.