Stepping into the role of Pediatric Department Chair is a pivotal and often challenging transition. AMSPDC is committed to ensuring that new leaders are not navigating this journey alone.
A New Chair is defined by a Pediatric Department Chair or Interim Chair who is in the first three years of their appointment. During this critical period, mentorship, community, and access to trusted guidance can make a meaningful difference in long-term success.
Our Approach
The AMSPDC New Chair Mentoring Program was created in response to the needs of newly appointed pediatric department chairs seeking connection, perspective, and practical support. Today, it remains a cornerstone of our commitment to leadership development.
Our goal is simple: to equip new chairs with the tools, relationships, and confidence they need to thrive.
Through this program, new chairs have the opportunity to:
- Build trusted relationships with experienced leaders
- Gain perspective and confidence in navigating complex leadership challenges
- Connect with a community of peers facing similar opportunities and demands
What the Program Includes:
A comprehensive support system designed to help new chairs succeed, combining individualized mentorship with structured learning and peer connection.
Participants benefit from:
- One-on-one mentorship with an experienced Pediatric Department Chair, providing personalized guidance, perspective, and support throughout the transition into the role
- A New Chairs Workshop held in conjunction with the AMSPDC Annual Spring Meeting, focused on practical leadership skills and real-world challenges
- Quarterly webinars addressing timely topics relevant to new chairs
- Peer-to-peer engagement opportunities, fostering connection, shared learning, collaboration, and community among colleagues navigating similar experiences
Mentorship relationships are grounded in collaboration and tailored to each chair’s unique goals and needs.
What Mentorship Supports
Mentorship conversations are tailored to each chair’s unique needs but often focus on areas such as:
- Leading clinical and academic enterprises effectively
- Faculty recruitment, retention, and development
- Financial stewardship and strategic planning
- Navigating institutional leadership and building partnerships
- Managing conflict and complex organizational dynamics
- Advancing advocacy efforts and elevating the role of pediatrics
- Maintaining personal well-being and preventing burnout
A Community Built for Your Success
Whether navigating your first faculty hire, shaping a long-term vision, or balancing competing demands, AMSPDC is committed to supporting you every step of the way.
We warmly welcome:
- New Chairs interested in being paired with a mentor
- Experienced Chairs interested in giving back and supporting the next generation of leaders
To learn more or get involved, please contact us at info@amspdc.org
New Chairs Committee Chair: William Steinbach, MD, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine
New Chairs Committee Vice Chair: Steven Czinn, MD, University of Maryland School of Medicine