The Successful Dean: Thoughtful Strategies and Savvy Tips for Today’s Evolving Leadership

What does leadership and change actually look like in myriad situations? This “boots-on-the-ground” resource, written by a former dean of education, pulls back the curtain on the crucial and complicated role of senior leadership and brings to the forefront experiences that often go unspoken. With humor and common-sense advice, the author draws on relevant scholarship to uncover the process for succeeding and thriving as a leader. The portrait of a dean is presented as a thoughtful activist whose leadership is defined by careful consideration of the responsibilities of the position and ethical responses to it all. Themes woven throughout the book include staying authentic, having courage, and remaining fair. Learning from the past but presenting a contemporary view, The Successful Dean responds to the rapidly changing context of higher education.

“This book tells a story that feels authentic and cathartic.”
—Karen Symms Gallagher, USC Rossier School of Education

"Koerner proved to be an exceptionally able dean in an especially complex university setting. She has terrific advice for any aspirants to the deanship."
—David C. Berliner, Regents’ Professor Emeritus, Arizona State University

“A must-read for novice and seasoned higher education leaders.”
—Alfredo J. Artiles, professor and dean, Arizona State University