McCoy College department chair joins national leadership cohort

​SAN MARCOS, Texas — Dr. Steven Rayburn, chair of the Department of Management and professor of marketing at Texas State University’s McCoy College of Business, has been selected to participate in the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ (AASCU) Department Chair Leadership Institute (DCLI).

Rayburn is one of 31 higher education leaders from across the country selected for the latest cohort of the semester-long professional development program, which is designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of department chairs at regional public universities.

Through the institute, participants will develop leadership skills and perspectives to help them navigate challenges within higher education, support faculty and colleagues, and advance student and institutional success.

The cohort is meeting in Washington, D.C. this week for two days of skills-building and intensive professional development. Throughout the semester, participants will examine leadership practices, learn from experienced higher education leaders, and build relationships with colleagues who share many of the same responsibilities and challenges.

The program will explore topics including aligning departmental priorities with institutional mission and strategy, developing and sustaining future-focused departments, managing resources, supervising and supporting colleagues, navigating difficult conversations, adapting to changes in higher education, and promoting wellness as a leader. 

“I am honored to have been selected to be part of this program,” Rayburn said. “I am excited to not only hear from experts and thought leaders, but to get to know and learn from fellow chairs from all over the country, who work in all types of institutions, but with whom I share a common experience. It will be very fulfilling to hear what they do and how they meet the needs of their faculty and students. I can't wait to use what I learn to continue serving the department and college." ✯

About the AASCU
AASCU represents more than 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems across the United States. Its member institutions share a focus on learning and teaching, serving today’s students, and advancing the economic and cultural development of their regions through research and creativity.