Professor Dr. Amy Dechen Quinn, co-chair of the College’s Department of Plant Science, Fisheries, Wildlife, and Environmental Science, is among 32 higher education professionals chosen by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) as its third cohort to attend its Department Chair Leadership Institute (DCLI).
Dr. Dechen Quinn traveled to Washington, D.C. last week for two days of training and skills building with the DCLI, hearing from seasoned presidents, provosts, and national thought-leaders as they share their expertise on topics including centering the academic mission and supporting student success, advancing excellence through effective leadership communication, and leading as a chair.
“We know the department chair position is one of the most challenging positions on campus, and through DCLI, AASCU is responding to the professional development needs of these critical administrators,” said Charles L. Welch, AASCU president and CEO. “With each new DCLI cohort, we are providing these front-line campus leaders with peer support, networking, and strategic insights to strengthen their leadership acumen and help them succeed.”
“I am still reflecting on the breadth of material presented at this conference,” said Dr. Dechen Quinn. “We explored a wide range of topics that all placed emphasis on the importance of communication, student support, and managing change. Hearing from university presidents and provosts about the unique challenges department chairs face was valuable, and I am excited to share the advice and guidance I received with my colleagues. I’m deeply grateful to our Office of Academic Affairs for encouraging me to apply and making this opportunity possible.”
Following the in-person session, the cohort will participate in virtual sessions throughout the Spring 2025 semester. View the full list of participants.
The program is made possible with support from Academic Search. Richard Helldobler, president of William Paterson University (NJ), is the institute’s executive sponsor and lead faculty member.
About AASCU
The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underrepresented student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.
