AASCU Welcomes New Cohort of 31 Department Chair Leadership Institute Participants
Contact:
Kellee Edmonds
(202) 478-4662
WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2026—The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has welcomed a new cohort of 31 higher education leaders to its Department Chair Leadership Institute (DCLI), a professional development program designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of department chairs at regional public universities.
Through DCLI, participants develop the leadership skills and perspectives needed to navigate complex challenges, support their colleagues, and advance student and institutional success. This week, the cohort is meeting in Washington, D.C., for two days of skills building and intensive professional development.
The semester-long institute brings together department chairs from across the country for intensive learning, peer exchange, and professional networking. The program provides opportunities to examine leadership practices, learn from experienced higher education leaders, and build relationships with colleagues who share many of the same responsibilities and challenges.
“Department chairs play a critical role in institutional culture, governance, and management,” said Richard Helldobler, president of William Paterson University (NJ), and the institute’s executive sponsor and lead faculty member. “DCLI provides valuable training and insight on how to navigate this complex leadership role in today’s higher education landscape.”
Throughout the program, participants will engage with topics including aligning departmental priorities with institutional mission and strategy, developing and sustaining a future-focused department, managing resources, supervising and supporting colleagues, navigating difficult conversations, adapting to changes in higher education, and promoting wellness as a leader.
This program is made possible with support from Academic Search.
View the full list of participants.
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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.
