Join the Associated College of the Midwest for a virtual, yearlong professional development series crafted for both new and experienced department chairs at ACM member colleges. This virtual program equips chairs with the frameworks and skills to lead effectively within their department and broader institution, especially in moments of profound change.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
ACM’s program is framed around the core tenets of experiential learning: the best way to develop self-awareness and cultivate leadership skills is to do the work of a leader and reflect on that work in a communal setting.
Over the academic year, participants will join a community of practice consisting of fellow department chairs from other ACM institutions. Monthly sessions will focus on identifying personal strengths and growth areas, defining opportunities for leadership within their department, managing relationships with higher-level administrators, responding successfully to conflict, and much more. Participants will gain practical tools for planning and implementing change, receive ongoing feedback, and refine their leadership strategies through iterative reflection and adjustment.
This opportunity is offered at no cost to ACM institutions, with up to three participants per college. Participants who complete the entire series will receive a $200 stipend from ACM in recognition of their time investment (payable in Spring 2027).
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Participants will:
- Gain Practical Insights into Departmental Leadership: Develop a working understanding of effective strategies and best practices for achieving departmental goals and initiatives within the unique context of a residential liberal arts college.
- Enhance Personal Leadership Skills: Explore and articulate a personal leadership philosophy, gain insight into preferred ways of working, and identify key areas for growth and development as a department chair.
- Reflect on Leadership Challenges: Describe struggles and successes in conversation with department chairs and program directors at peer institutions. Reflect on individual and shared experiences to refine an approach to leadership and change management.
REGISTRATION PROCESS
ACM colleges may nominate/select up to three individuals serving as current department chairs to participate. Selected participants are asked to register by June 30, 2026. Late registrants may be accepted as space is available.
Individuals interested in participating in this program should contact their dean. If more than three registrations are received from a campus, participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If not all spots are claimed, remaining spots will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
PROGRAM
Participants will take part in five virtual synchronous sessions. Sessions will not be recorded to encourage candor. Participants will be asked to spend up to an hour before each session engaged in preparatory work, such as reading articles.
This program is delivered as a community of practice—a group of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or interest in a topic and who come together to fulfill both individual and group goals. As a result, attendance and active participation matter.
Initial Orientation: Held twice to accommodate vacation schedules: 1:00 – 4:00 pm (central) on Monday, August 17, or Tuesday, August 25.
Five Monthly Meetings: Thursdays, 2:00 – 4:00 pm (central) on September 17, October 22, November 12, February 4, and April 8.
Please contact [email protected] with questions about this program.
