About Department Chairs

Department chairs provide primary leadership in teaching units at American University, actively balancing the needs and the will of departmental faculty with the policies and procedures of the University and limitations imposed by the University budget. There is a common set of expectations for departmental chairs regarding the operation of their departments and the supervision of faculty and student members of their departments. A department chair is responsible for the execution of administrative functions, faculty and personnel functions, liaison, student-related and leadership functions, in a timely manner.  Of greatest importance to graduate students are the following functions coordinated by the department chair: Academic advisement, encouraging student clubs and organizations, resolution of student complaints, informing students of registration and enrollment procedures, as well as assuring that students have access to courses required for graduation.

Department Chairs