The article identifies three commonalities between the dean and department chair (e.g., both must create and reinforce an appropriate organizational identity) and offers five strategies for collaboration related to the areas of professional development, communication, motivation, budget, and evaluation. (MLW)

Department chairs occupy what is arguably one of the most important administrative spots in a higher education institution. As a group, they set the academic tone of the institution and greatly facilitate or hinder the accomplishment of its mission. The various types of department chairs are described: hopeful, survivors, transient, and…

The qualitites that department heads will need most in the next few decades are identified and the changes in the nature of the job are outlined. The chairperson as entrepreneur, creative custodian of standards, and politician, and the satisfactions of the position are discussed. (MLW)

Discussed is the ambiguity chairpersons feel because they are neither faculty members nor regular administrators but are expected to represent both sets of interests. Institutional support is seen as necessary to the former chairperson's successful readjustment to faculty life. (MLW)

A poll of department chairpersons about personal and professional attitudes, motivations, and concerns is reported. Opportunity, challenge, and responsibility were recurring themes. Recommendations are made: giving additional released time, clarifying requirements for promotion, providing credit for accomplishments, publicizing need for unpopular…