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For academic leaders, the role of a department chairperson is one of the most challenging and critical positions in higher education. Balancing faculty management, student needs, administrative duties, and strategic vision requires a unique skill set. The Academic Chairpersons Conference has long been the premier event for providing practical, skill-building support for these leaders.
Hosted by Kansas State University Global Campus, this conference is now entering its 42nd year. Here is a guide to everything you need to know about the upcoming 2026 event.
What: The 42nd Annual Academic Chairpersons Conference
Dates: February 11-13, 2026
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Host: Kansas State University Global Campus
This conference is specifically designed for academic leaders at all levels, from department chairs and heads to deans and provosts. It is particularly valuable for:
New Chairs: Those in their first few years will find invaluable, practical advice on navigating the role.
Experienced Chairs: Seasoned leaders attend to refresh their skills, learn about new trends (like AI in academia, legal issues), and network with peers.
Aspiring Leaders: Faculty members considering a move into administration can gain a clear-eyed view of the challenges and opportunities.
Deans, Associate Deans, and Provosts: These leaders attend to better understand how to support and develop their department chairs.
Unlike discipline-specific research conferences, this event is focused entirely on the practice of academic leadership. You can expect sessions and workshops covering:
Faculty Management: Navigating difficult conversations, conducting effective faculty evaluations, mentoring new faculty, and managing conflict.
Legal and Ethical Issues: Understanding FERPA, Title IX, faculty rights, and other legal landmines in higher education.
Budget and Resource Management: How to advocate for your department, manage limited resources, and align your budget with strategic goals.
Leadership and Vision: Strategic planning, leading departmental change, and fostering a positive and inclusive climate.
Student Success: Strategies for chairs to support student retention, diversity, and well-being.
Personal Development: Time management, avoiding burnout, and charting your own career path in administration.
This is a peer-reviewed conference. If you have a strategy, case study, or research related to academic leadership, this is the perfect venue to share it.
Status: The Call for Proposals is currently open.
Deadline: The deadline for proposal submissions is typically in mid-to-late November 2025. Be sure to check the official conference website for the exact date.
Registration for the 2026 conference is also open. An early-bird registration discount is typically available until mid-January 2026.
The 2026 Academic Chairpersons Conference in New Orleans offers a unique opportunity to step away from the daily demands of your role and focus on your own development. You will connect with a national community of peers who face the exact same challenges you do, returning to campus with practical solutions, renewed energy, and a network of support.
