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Department Chair Academy

The Teaching & Learning Excellence Division (TLED) developed the Department Chair Academy in response to an overwhelming demand from department chairs for additional support. The DC Academy is a 60-hour program designed to support department chairs throughout their first year in the role as they lead the department in achieving student success. The Academy supports new chairs by assisting them in locating and using the tools and resources necessary to complete department chair tasks and offering development opportunities to enhance leadership skills and key competencies.

Working with a cohort model, the DC Academy offers support in many forms, including reading materials, videos, lib guides, guest speakers, and the chance to meet once a week with other new chairs. In addition, DC Boot Camps offer new department chairs timely exposure to ACC’s software and systems necessary to complete the job. Upon completion, department chairs receive recognition from the College and a $1600 stipend.

Key Dates:

    • DC Academy Collegewide Kickoff: Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
    • Boot Camp I for Department Chairs: Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
    • Boot Camp II for Department Chairs: Friday, October 3, 2025, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
    • Boot Camp III for Department Chairs: Friday, March 6, 2026, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

*Current DCs are welcome to attend Boot Camp trainings on an ‘as-needed’ basis.

For any questions, please contact Catherine Solaas (csolaas@austincc.edu) and Dr. Theresa Glenn (tglenn2@austincc.edu).