August 20, 2025
In the ever-evolving landscape of academia, stepping into the role of an interim dean can be both a challenge and an opportunity. With the right approach, you can leave a lasting impact during your temporary tenure. Here are some insights drawn from my own unexpected journey in this position.
Preparation is Key
Before you officially take on the role, consider discussing with your provost the possibility of including an application option for the permanent dean position in your appointment letter. While I initially pursued this, I soon realized that my long-standing familiarity with the institution might hinder the transformative changes I believed were necessary. External candidates often bring fresh perspectives and are less likely to be bound by existing norms, which can be crucial for driving meaningful change.
Build Strong Relationships with Staff
As an interim dean, establishing trust and rapport with your college’s staff, associate deans, and department heads is essential. I found that emphasizing collaboration over unilateral decision-making was key to fostering a positive environment. By promoting a culture of teamwork, I signaled that the success of our college relied on collective efforts rather than my individual authority.
Embrace the Journey of Discovery
During my time as interim dean, I participated in an orientation for new administrators, which provided valuable insights into legal and organizational matters. However, much of my learning came from engaging with various events and meetings, even when I was the only dean present. This willingness to explore uncharted territory led to unexpected connections and conversations that deepened my understanding of faculty concerns and aspirations.
Collaborate with Fellow Deans
Being in the middle of senior leadership and department chairs offers a unique opportunity for collaboration with other deans. I found that sharing resources and insights with my peers not only enhanced our collective voice on important issues but also fostered a supportive network. To strengthen our camaraderie, I initiated a monthly social gathering, affectionately dubbed “Veritable Decanalia,” which became a platform for informal discussions and idea exchange.
Redefine Your Role
Rather than viewing yourself as a mere placeholder, embrace your position as the dean and take the initiative to enhance existing strategies. While it’s wise to approach significant changes with caution, don’t hesitate to implement your vision. For instance, I redirected budget priorities to focus on student success, reallocating funds to support graduate education and establishing need-based scholarships for undergraduates.
Additionally, I surprised many by launching a “Year of the Liberal Arts” initiative at a university primarily focused on STEM. Such initiatives not only elevate the college’s profile but also demonstrate to potential candidates that the institution is vibrant and forward-thinking.
Recognize the Temporary Nature of Your Role
While it may seem contradictory, acknowledging the temporary nature of your appointment can actually set the stage for your successor’s success. By addressing critical issues and ensuring a smooth transition, you can prevent your successor from facing immediate challenges that could hinder their effectiveness. This proactive approach allows them to focus on their vision without being bogged down by past oversights.
As you navigate your interim role, remember the wisdom from The Lord of the Rings: “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” If the thought of a temporary position feels daunting, it may not be the right fit for you. My own experience was marked by simultaneous search processes for my replacement, which added a layer of complexity to my daily responsibilities.
If you are passionate about enhancing the environment for students, faculty, and staff, seize the opportunity to serve as interim dean. The experience offers invaluable insights into institutional dynamics and higher education as a whole.
As you embark on this rewarding journey of leadership, it’s crucial to plan for your future beyond the interim role. While I initially felt relief at the prospect of stepping away from a position fraught with challenges, I quickly recognized the importance of supporting my successor and remaining engaged in the college’s leadership team in a capacity that reflects my newfound knowledge.