Shelly Landreth, Ed.D., the chair of education at Sul Ross State University, has been selected to the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Department Chair Leadership Institute (DCLI), a professional development program designed to strengthen the leadership capacity 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.

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.

For more information, email shelly.landreth@sulross.edu.