This exploratory study of department chairs, deans, and faculty at extensive research public universities in Florida resulted in the identification of 85 future competencies of department chairs using a human resources perspective. Results include a discussion of the top 20 most important competencies and the top 20 competencies anticipated to be used most frequently in the next 5 to 10 years. The study includes an examination of dissonance that is apparent between the study participants as it relates to the importance and use of the competencies. Contextual variables from which the competencies can be studied in the future are also identified and two of the identified contextual variables (i.e., gender and perceived opportunity for funding) are piloted to examine the relations among these variables to competency importance and frequency of use. The relations among the importance of the competencies and leadership are also examined and discussed. The study would be of interest to academic administrators, human resources (HR) practitioners, and to researchers interested in the study of department chairs, leadership, and competency identification. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]