A Story of an Associate Dean in Higher Education in Uncertain and Challenging Times

Abstract

This essay tells my story of being an associate dean at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa during uncertain and challenging times. Triumphs are rare in administrative work, but there were some incremental successes that have given me a sense of accomplishment as a leader. It discusses some of those accomplishments and challenges. It also tells my experience of transition from a department faculty position to an administrative position. It concludes with advice for those who are currently considering a managerial or executive administrative position beyond your home department.