Abstract
This article distills self evident truths about departmental governance drawn from chair experience and peer narratives in communication programs. Framing the department as a unique cultural and social entity within the university, the discussion outlines recurring challenges in faculty relations, administrative negotiation, budgeting, and crisis management. It highlights how disciplinary world views shape interaction with deans, how external constituencies such as alumni and families influence policy, and how personal skills and values inform chair leadership. Four thematic areas structure the reflections: internal culture, external connections, personal competencies, and philosophical dimensions of change. Recommendations promote transparent communication, inclusive networking, data informed decision making, and dialogic leadership that balances departmental advocacy with institutional loyalty. Keywords: departmental governance, academic leadership, organizational culture, communication administration, faculty relations, university management, leadership ethics, higher education.
Recommended Citation
Pickering, Marisue
(1992)
"Commentary: Self-Evident Truths for Departmental Governance,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 80, Article 10.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol80/iss1/10
