In this highly interactive seminar, you will examine your leadership style, learn how to navigate difficult situations, explore leading from the middle, and more. The bulk of time will be spent in discussion with your peers and experienced chairs while working through case studies, scenarios, and tricky issues of academic leadership. Along the way, you’ll form invaluable connections with colleagues who you can call on for advice and support throughout your term as chair.
Leadership Essentials participants are academic department chairs, and directors of department-like units, who have less than one year of experience in their role.
Dates and Location
- August 18 and 19, 2026
- 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. on both days
- In person at the Pyle Center, on the UW–Madison campus
Registration
- Registration information will be added in spring 2026
- Registration is free for all participants
Past participants say the best part of the seminar is getting to know colleagues from different schools and colleges and people who you can contact for help during your term as chair.
Contact
All new department chairs and new academic program directors are invited to attend. You will also receive an invitation to register in May 2026. If you do not receive this invitation, or need more information, please contact us at vpfsa@provost.wisc.edu.