Chairperson Information, Resources & Support

Department Chairs are the collegial leaders of their departments and perform essential administrative responsibilities designed to enhance academic quality and service to students. 

Chairpersons must also perform the appropriate faculty responsibilities as prescribed by the University consistent with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreement.

• Department Chair appointments will become effective September 1, 2023.
• Pursuant to the Master Agreement, the usual term of service shall be three (3) academic years.  
• Chairs will receive six (6) credit hours of released time in the Fall and Spring semesters for Academic Year 2023-2024.  
• The job description for Department Chairs is posted on the Task Force on Departments and Chairs website.  A “Considerations” document may assist in determining the need for Associate Chairs, coordinators or other support.
• As per LOA 34, Department Chairs must be full-time, tenured faculty at the rank of Associate or Full Professor[1]. 
• Department Chairs hold their 10-month faculty titles.  Compensation for work during the summer months will be provided through separate contracts depending on the needs of the department (the exact rate is currently being determined).

[1] As per item II.e. of the Chairperson Job Description, a major role of department chairs is to provide formative guidance and feedback to faculty on route to tenure and promotion.  This is especially important as the University works toward R2 status.  The department chair must understand and be able to discuss the expectations for promotion; therefore, it is imperative that the faculty member serving in this role has been through the promotions process themselves.