The Department Chairs Committee at Sinte Gleska University (SGU) serves as a critical link between the university's administration and its academic programs. This body is primarily responsible for maintaining the quality of education and ensuring that academic policies align with the university’s mission of sovereignty and Lakota traditional values.

Key Responsibilities

Core Responsibilities

The committee and its individual chairpersons focus on the following key areas:

• Curricular Oversight: They review and recommend changes to the curriculum, including new courses and degree programs, which are then passed to the President and Board of Regents.

• Academic Policy: The committee is responsible for developing educational programs and recommending policies that promote the continuous improvement of higher education at SGU.

• Departmental Supervision: Each chairperson coordinates and supervises the academic programs within their specific department. This includes staff evaluation and curriculum development in cooperation with faculty.

• Strategic Planning: Members participate in institutional assessment and strive to create the best possible conditions for instruction, research, and community service.

Leadership & Structure

Chairpersons are appointed by the President following consultation with the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

• Compensation: Chairs typically receive a salary augmentation and a teaching load reduction (usually one class) to account for their administrative duties.

• Governance: The committee operates within the Faculty Governance Structure and is often involved with the Faculty Council and the Curriculum Committee.