This is a collection of concise bits of advice for medical school administrators on how to manage the challenges of playing a leadership role. The book covers topics ranging from how to negotiate the terms of a contract once you have accepted an administrative position, to broaching difficult subjects like termination, to managing budget crises. The authors have several years of experience as leaders in academic medicine and each "pearl" is the product of their practical expertise.

Dr. Wilson is the director of the Office of Health Research and Development and dean emeritus of the UK College of Medicine. He has earned a national reputation for his work as a reproductive endocrinologist. In 1985, one of his patients had Kentucky's first successful pregnancy by in vitro fertilization. He is the author of more than 130 articles and abstracts and has published four books. Wilson was dean of the College of Medicine for 17 years. Under his direction, the College of Medicine became nationally recognized for educational innovations.  After completing a residency in obstetrics and genecology and serving in the U.S. Air Force, he held a faculty position and a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Harvard Medical School. He returned to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine faculty in 1976. He is professor of obstetrics and gynecology in addition to his administrative duties. He has served on the executive council of the Association of American Medical Colleges and the Counsel of Deans Administrative Board. He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a member of many societies, including the American Medical Association, the Kentucky Medical Association, Society for Gynecologic Investigation, and the Royal Society of Medicine.