Prepare to Chair: Leading the Dissertation and Thesis Process by Gretchen Oltman, Jeanne L. Surface, and Kay Keiser

This review of Prepare to Chair: Leading the Dissertation and Thesis Process provides a comprehensive overview of the essential skills needed by new faculty members assuming the role of dissertation committee chair. Drawing from personal experiences, the authors offer practical advice on communication, leadership, and managing the dissertation process. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, clear expectations, and the chair’s role in guiding students through the challenges of dissertation writing. While highlighting useful frameworks such as situational leadership and mindfulness, the review also points to the need for further exploration of the power dynamics involved in this role.