Donna LaVoie • Dean, College of Arts and Sciences • Saint Louis University • Saint Louis, MO
May 26, 2025
This essay explores the evolving role of the “life of the mind” in academic leadership, particularly in the work of a college dean. While deans begin their careers rooted in disciplinary scholarship, the transition to administration often distances academic leaders from direct intellectual engagement. How might academic leaders reconnect with scholarly work through reading faculty publications? Making time for intentional engagement with faculty work can deepen an academic leader’s appreciation for interdisciplinary scholarship, can model intellectual curiosity, foster cross-disciplinary connections, and uphold the core values of a liberal arts education. The ability to maintain an active intellectual life is both possible and vital to academic leadership. Read more >
Daniel Press • Dean, College of Arts and Sciences • Santa Clara University • Santa Clara, CA
May 26, 2025
Can a dean have a life of the mind without continuing their scholarship or creative activity and if they don’t teach? An Arts and Sciences dean frames his primary administrative responsibilities as intellectual, creative and inquisitive in their own rights, independent of scholarship and teaching. A dean’s responsibilities include problem-solving, advocacy, and management, which can vigorously stretch one’s intellect and creativity in rewarding ways. Read more >
Gordon Alley-Young • Dean of Faculty • Kingsborough Community College – CUNY • Brooklyn, NY
Cynthia Olvina • Academic Affairs Manager, Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost • Kingsborough Community College – CUNY • Brooklyn, NY
May 7, 2024
A quick-start guide for orienting and onboarding a new chairperson, especially when it is an unexpected change and short transition period. Written from the vantage of a faculty and a staff leader who oversee chair development, this article provides practical advice for setting up a new chair for success. Read more >
