Faculty members often strive to protect their time for research and teaching, even as they support service needs within the department, institution, and profession. Stepping into the DEO role involves shifting those priorities and putting service that endeavors to aid colleagues and the success of the unit above their own. In a practical sense, the time and attention of DEOs are pulled in many directions each day as you work to support your colleagues and the department. To manage this role effectively while at the same time maintaining a research program of your own, it is important to develop strategies for time management. The Provost’s Office offers various development seminars that can help to build and refine habits and systems to use your time effectively. 

It is important for your own professional development to maintain your research program and it is also beneficial to your department that you stay active in your scholarship and prominent in your field. To make time for your research, you’ll need to delegate some duties and entrust colleagues and staff in their roles. It will be helpful to everyone’s time management and effectiveness for you to clarify the scope of each faculty and staff member’s roles so that you can coordinate efforts and avoid duplication.