The work of the executive assistant to the dean is an extension of the work of the dean in service to the students, faculty, and institution. The executive assistant controls access to the dean, manages resources, and coordinates cyclical processes and routine projects under the dean’s responsibility. Deans need support and protection to maximize their impact, and the right executive assistant is key. This article seeks to assist deans (VPs, provosts, etc.) in their roles as staff supervisors: articulating job descriptions, assessing applicants, communicating expectations, and conducting performance reviews, all contributing to a culture of effectiveness.

The Indispensable Role of Faculty in Higher Education
If a university were a quilt, the faculty would be the threads holding the fabric together. But despite their essential role, faculty often find themselves undervalued and underappreciated. This article