Testimonial Richard Strand of the Chair Academy: The Chair Academy, is dedicated to delivering exemplary leadership development. The Academy has offered world-class, competency-based, leadership development programs for college and university leaders since 1992. Leadership programs are offered at the organizational, state, regional, national, and international level. The Annual International Leadership Conference attracts leaders from around the world to experience distinguished keynote speakers and presentations. The Academy's refereed journal is respected as a source of inspiration and best practices in leadership.