Anticipation. Excitement. Dread. Fatigue. These are words some of the authors used to describe how they felt serving as a Department Chair during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Examining the roles and responsibilities that Department Chairs have, this book is deeply descriptive and gripping given that these Department Chairs were serving during a global pandemic.

Because research and experience tell us that being a department chair is one of the most difficult positions in higher education, the co-editors of this volume compiled first-person narratives of department chairs who were in their first 3 years of the position so that prospective candidates can benefit from their experiences. Twenty-seven writers contributed personal and professional stories about the triumphs and travails of being a department chair during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of these narratives are funny; while some are heartbreaking, sad, and downright painful. Chapter contributors hailed from diverse departments including English, Communication, Education, Counseling, History, Political Science, and Professional Studies.

What the Hell Was I Thinking? Reflections, Ruminations, and Revelations on Becoming a Department Chair is a must-read for individuals considering becoming a Department Chair, those who are Department Chairs, and those who ever have served in that capacity.