Leadership Development for Contemporary Post-Secondary Academic Leaders: Challenges, Content and Approach

In the dynamic landscape of contemporary higher education, the demand for leaders well-versed in the intricacies of its challenges has become paramount. Despite the availability of leadership fellowships and retreats globally, there is a notable dearth of institution-specific leadership development programs tailored for post-secondary education leaders. This deficiency leaves a substantial number of higher education leaders ill-equipped with the fundamental competencies needed for effective leadership. This review underscores the pressing necessity to establish institution-based leadership development initiatives explicitly crafted for academic leaders and faculty members. The exploration encompasses diverse platforms and methodologies for delivering such programs, drawing insights from empirical studies that underscore the advantages of leadership development. Also, the review discusses the content of leadership development curricula. Focusing on academic leaders and faculty, these curricula cover competencies such as strategic planning, interpersonal communication, talent management, and adaptive leadership. The outcomes underscore the significance of institutions integrating leadership development efforts within their academic domains. The discussion delves into the manifold benefits of instituting leadership development programs, not only as a cost-effective alternative to external fellowship courses but as a strategic move with multifaceted advantages. These advantages encompass streamlining competitive succession planning, magnetizing and retaining talent, cultivating expansive networking opportunities, and augmenting the capacity to confront contemporary challenges in higher education. By prioritizing the nurturing of academic leaders, institutions can effectively bridge the gap between current leadership skills and the evolving demands of the higher education landscape. Training Leaders in Colleges and Universities Today: The Problems, What's Taught, and How It's DoneIn today's fast-changing world of higher education, having knowledgeable leaders who understand its challenges is crucial. While there are leadership programs globally, there is a lack of ones designed specifically for post-secondary education leaders. This gap leaves many leaders without the essential skills needed for effective leadership. This review highlights the urgent need for institution-specific leadership programs designed for academic leaders and faculty. It explores different ways to deliver these programs, drawing insights from real-world studies that emphasize the benefits of leadership development. The review also looks into the content of these programs, focusing on skills like strategic planning, communication, talent management, and adaptive leadership. The outcomes stress the importance of integrating leadership development into academic settings, not just as a cost-effective alternative but as a strategic move with numerous advantages. These include better succession planning, attracting and retaining talent, creating extensive networks, and enhancing the ability to face today's challenges in higher education. By prioritizing the growth of academic leaders, institutions can bridge the gap between current skills and the evolving demands of higher education.