Guidance for Academic Year 2027: ADC Release Time Supplement
As we transition into Academic Year 2027 (AY27), Department Chairs can submit a justification to their respective Deans requesting additional release for Assistant Department Chair (ADC) roles. To ensure leadership structures are both sustainable and responsive, departments in Group 2 may request an increase in annual ADC release from 21 LEH up to 24 LEH, while Group 1 departments may request a move from 18 LEH up to 21 LEH. These adjustments may provide additional flexibility to leverage ADC release in ways that support both general administrative oversight and discipline-specific operational needs.
The Dean is responsible for reviewing the request and documenting the response (approval or otherwise). Note that an approval for AY27 does not automatically roll over into AY28 planning, as each year requires an updated request and review to ensure continued alignment with departmental, School, and broader needs.
When evaluating whether a department requires an allocation at the higher end of their designated range, Department Chairs and Deans should consider the following guiding questions:
- Does the program’s current rubric score (e.g., ~20 or greater) suggest it is on the threshold of increased ADC need?
- Does the department manage a uniquely heavy administrative workload, particularly regarding the oversight of complex lab environments or specialized equipment?
- Are there significant, timely demands related to external accreditation cycles or intensive industry partner requirements?
- Has a recent consolidation of two or more departments created a leadership span that the current ADC release cannot adequately support in the immediate future?
- Are there specific pedagogical or program-specific requirements, such as managing performance seasons or maintaining specialized certifications, that warrant additional dedicated time?
Clarification on annual ADC Release allotment
Consistent with the objective and informed process established by the DLIWG, and in adherence to a methodology that prioritizes clarity and transparency, any ‘unused’ LEH from the previous year will not result in a reduction of the allotment in subsequent years. Instead, each cycle will designate an amount of LEH per Department based on the established methodology to ensure transparency and data-driven leadership planning.
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