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Tufts Department and Division Heads Leadership Program

Tufts Department and Division Heads Leadership Program is a year-long leadership development experience designed for new and continuing department and division heads.

A collaboration between the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty and Academic Impressions, this program is tailored to support academic leaders in building essential skills, discussing priorities and concerns, strengthening peer networks, and advancing Tufts’ academic mission.

Why This Program?

In today’s dynamic academic landscape, department and division heads face increasingly complex situations. This program is designed to help participants lead with clarity, empathy, and strategic insight—while fostering collaboration, managing conflict, and navigating institutional priorities.

Program Overview

Participants will engage in a series of in-person and virtual sessions focused on leadership development, peer learning, strategic visioning, and practical application:

  • Opening Workshop (In-Person)
    October 9–10, 2025
    A two-day immersive experience focused on foundational leadership skills and building a strong peer network.
  • Leadership Workshop Series (Hybrid)
    Beginning in November, 12-1:30 PM
    Three 90-minute sessions that explore real-world leadership challenges, reflect on experiences, and receive feedback from peers and facilitators. Workshops will be open to ALL department and division heads across Tufts.
  • Closing Workshop (In-Person)
    April 28, 2026, 12–3 PM
    Focused on team building, personal reflection, and planning for continued growth.
  • End-of-Year Reception
    April 28, 2026, 3–5 PM
    Celebrate the cohort’s accomplishments and the close of the academic year.

Eligibility

We invite deans to nominate department and division heads who:

  • Are currently serving or newly appointed to their leadership role 
  • Demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional growth 
  • Are eager to foster a culture of leadership and collaboration 
  • Can commit to full participation in all program sessions and activities 

Key Dates

  • August 27: Nominations Open 
  • September 15: Nominations Due 
  • September 18: Selection Notifications to participants
  • October 9–10: Opening Workshop (In-Person) 
  • November 7, January 30, March 6: Leadership Workshop Series (12–1:30 PM, Hybrid) Open to ALL department and division heads across Tufts.
  • April 28: Closing Workshop (12–3 PM) and Reception (3–5 PM) Open to ALL department and division heads across Tufts.

Nomination Process

Deans are invited to submit nominations between August 27 and September 15. The Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty will notify selected participants by September 18 with a formal invitation with program details.

We encourage you to nominate up to four department or division heads for this transformative opportunity. Please use this link for each of your nominations.

For questions about eligibility or the nomination process, please contact Augusta.Rohrbach@tufts.edu.