Activities and roles of department heads that can improve departmental and faculty effectiveness were investigated, along with dimensions associated with departmental leadership of chairpersons. In the first of two studies, department heads at four-year institutions were interviewed to identify views of existing conditions in higher education, roles performed by chairpersons, career development issues, and strategies used to increase department vitality and faculty development. Vice-Chancellors or Vice-Presidents for Academic Affairs identified department heads who are best at helping faculty grow and be productive, as well as faculty that have demonstrated considerable faculty growth. A total of 33 chairpersons and 29 faculty were interviewed. In the second study, chief academic officers at three midwest, urban universities identified outstanding departments with active and effective chairpersons. The 19 selected chairpersons were interviewed to identify dimensions of effective departmental leadership and management strategies. Appended is a chart that outlines seven roles performed by outstanding chairpersons, descriptions of these roles, and activities that were designed to promote faculty development and departmental vitality. The department head questionnaire is included. (SW)