At some point during their teaching and research careers, many academics will decide to seek their first administrative post. As tenure-track positions diminish and because salaries for administration in general are higher than those for academics, the choice has attractive incentives. It offers greater long-term financial benefits. It affords more opportunities for relocation to new positions. It is easier to create a two career path for married academics than when both are dedicated to teaching or research. And it creates an opportunity to fulfill one’s ambitions to have a larger impact on higher education and a specific academic institution than teaching or research.
How Leaders Shape, Signal, and Build Cultures: A Discussion Guide for Academic Leaders and Their Teams
Among the many desired traits most prized in academic leadership, the ability to shape (or reshape) institutional culture is sometimes overlooked in favor of fiscal acumen, the ability to drive
Lisa Jasinski
May 4, 2026