Dean (University) Onboarding Checklist

Dean (University) Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Dean (University) starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Education onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Dean (University), you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Dean (University) onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Dean (University) Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new Dean attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the university’s mission, values, organizational structure, and key policies. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

2. Introduction to key stakeholders: The Dean is introduced to key stakeholders such as the university president, provost, faculty members, department heads, and administrative staff. This task is usually facilitated by the university president or a senior administrator.

3. Review of strategic plans: The new Dean reviews the university’s strategic plans, including its vision, goals, and objectives. This task is typically performed by the Provost’s office or a designated strategic planning committee.

4. Familiarization with academic programs: The Dean familiarizes themselves with the university’s academic programs, including the curriculum, faculty, and student enrollment. This task may involve meetings with department heads, faculty members, and academic advisors.

5. Budget review: The Dean reviews the university’s budget, including revenue sources, expenses, and financial projections. This task is usually performed by the Chief Financial Officer or a designated budget officer.

6. Faculty and staff meetings: The Dean attends faculty and staff meetings to introduce themselves, establish rapport, and understand the concerns and needs of the academic community. These meetings are typically organized by the Dean’s office or the faculty senate.

7. Review of accreditation requirements: The Dean familiarizes themselves with the accreditation requirements for the university and its academic programs. This task may involve reviewing accreditation reports, meeting with accreditation officers, and participating in accreditation-related activities.

8. Development of relationships with external stakeholders: The Dean establishes relationships with external stakeholders such as alumni, donors, community leaders, and industry partners. This task may involve attending networking events, participating in community outreach activities, and engaging in fundraising efforts.

9. Review of governance structure: The Dean reviews the university’s governance structure, including the roles and responsibilities of various committees, boards, and councils. This task is typically facilitated by the Provost’s office or a designated governance committee.

10. Development of a strategic vision: The Dean develops a strategic vision for their tenure, aligning it with the university’s mission and goals. This task may involve conducting a SWOT analysis, soliciting input from key stakeholders, and formulating a strategic plan.

11. Performance evaluation: The Dean participates in a performance evaluation process, which may include setting goals, receiving feedback, and developing a professional development plan. This task is typically performed by the Provost’s office or a designated evaluation committee.

12. Mentoring and support: The Dean receives mentoring and support from a senior administrator or a designated mentor within the university. This task aims to provide guidance, advice, and assistance in navigating the challenges of the new role.

13. Familiarization with university policies and procedures: The Dean familiarizes themselves with the university’s policies and procedures, including those related to academic affairs, human resources, finance, and student services. This task may involve reviewing policy manuals, attending training sessions, and seeking clarification from relevant departments.

14. Collaboration with other Deans: The Dean collaborates with other Deans within the university to foster interdisciplinary initiatives, share best practices, and address common challenges. This task may involve attending Dean’s council meetings, participating in joint projects, and engaging in collaborative decision-making processes.

15. Public speaking and media training: The Dean receives public speaking and media training to effectively communicate the university’s mission, vision, and initiatives. This task may involve working with a communications department or hiring external consultants.

16. Development of a leadership team: The Dean develops a leadership team, including associate deans, department heads, and administrative staff, to support the achievement of the university’s goals. This task may involve conducting interviews, making hiring decisions, and delegating responsibilities.

17. Review of student support services: The Dean reviews the university’s student support services, including counseling, career services, academic advising, and student organizations. This task may involve meeting with relevant staff members, attending student events, and assessing the effectiveness of existing services.

18. Development of a culture of diversity and inclusion: The Dean works towards fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within the university, ensuring equitable opportunities for all students, faculty, and staff. This task may involve developing diversity initiatives, participating in diversity training, and promoting inclusive practices.

19. Development of fundraising strategies: The Dean collaborates with the university’s development office to develop fundraising strategies and cultivate relationships with potential donors. This task may involve attending donor meetings, participating in fundraising events, and developing grant proposals.

20. Continuous professional development: The Dean engages in continuous professional development activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, to stay updated on trends and best practices in higher education leadership. This task is typically self-driven, but may receive support from the Provost’s office or a designated professional development committee

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Dean (University) checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Dean (University) up to speed and working well in your Education team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.