Abstract:

After years as Faculty, leading one's peers as the head of the department can have its challenges. Moving from peer to supervisor requires understanding, open mindedness, persistence, flexibility, and thick skin. The authors of this paper were Faculty for many years, studied Higher Education Administration in their doctoral work, and then became the heads of their departments as Associate Deans. In this transition, they have learned how to move from theory to practice as they lead their former peers, colleagues, and co-workers in new directions. Over the past few years, this transition has required the authors to adopt a new attitude and approach, seamlessly move between leadership and management, and develop best practices to successfully manage and lead their respective departments.

This paper focuses on the authors' journey and transition from Faculty to Administration and what they have learned from their experiences. It also focuses on tips and best practices for effectively leading one's former peers, creating a culture of accountability within a warm and respectful environment, and separating personal relationships from professional ones.

Keywords:

Higher education administration, leadership, faculty, best practices.