In the Interim: Effects of Temporary Leadership on Higher Education Institutions

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Challenges of Academic Leaders Across Higher Education

Abstract

Given high rates of turnover among presidents, provosts, and deans, interim administrators have become a permanent fixture in the higher education landscape. Despite the importance of interim leadership to successful institutional performance, research on interim administrators in higher education remains severely limited. This paper provides a critical analysis of the literature on interim administrators in education, corporate, and government sectors, and offers a research agenda to inform institutional practices during a critical time of leadership transition. Overall, the literature indicates that interim administrators are challenged to perform complex tasks; yet, their autonomy is often constrained, and their legitimacy may be questioned. The paper also explores the complicated dynamics that emerge when interims become candidates for the permanent position.

Authors

• Jay R. Dee, University of Massachusetts Boston

• Anne Marie DeFelippo, Salem State University