Commander or Caretaker? The Unique Role of an Interim Dean

Abstract

The temporary nature of the appointment to serve as an interim dean influences the myriad duties of academic leadership, including strategic planning, faculty and staff development, academic program development, and fundraising and public relations. Whether or not the interim decides to become a candidate for the permanent position is an important consideration. This paper examines what those appointed as interim dean can expect, including challenges all deans face and those unique to interim deans.