ABSTRACT
From a research perspective, there is much to be learned about the dynamics involved in leading an intercollegiate athletic department at the NCAA Division I level. Gleaning more information on athletic administration is valuable for individuals who aspire to become an athletic director as well as for university presidents and other key university administrators who interact with intercollegiate athletics. Through conducting a review of literature, this chapter illustrates the significance, function, and style of leadership and their impact on the organizational effectiveness of intercollegiate athletic departments, in which a focus is placed on the key leadership roles provided by athletic directors and university presidents. Contemporary issues faced by intercollegiate athletic departments in terms of finance and funding, crisis communication, legal issues and student-athlete welfare, and student-athlete compensation are further discussed in the context of providing effective leadership.
