In the Beginning: Foundations of a Successful Deanship

The job of a modern law school dean is demanding and complex. Decanal tenures are increasingly short. Those who take on the work of being a law school dean are asked to accomplish a great deal in a short period of time. As a result, the first year of any decanal tenure is vital.

The lessons of experience learned by many deans and foundational ideas of leadership scholars provide guideposts for new deans to chart a course through their first year. This essay explores those ideas for new deans to consider and implement in their own way.