Teachers are more important than programs, although it is likely that good teachers create good programs. People do, and it is the relationships between the teacher and the students that change, help, and encourage students. Relationships are important to the success of most students and, thus the success of the department as well. For the most part, teachers understand this point. But, my sense is that an unknown percentage simply is not open and trusting of the students.
All good teachers understand the importance of finding time for their students.
They enjoy leading students in the learning process, in finding and creating opportunities that open up possibilities in personal and professional growth, and in helping others to be successful. Good teachers get their students involved in the experience of learning. They see themselves as mentors and, therefore, spend a lot of time creating options in learning how to think. They are leaders in selling themselves to influence others to take action. A student's contact with a caring teacher can begin the shaping of the whole individual and set the tone of the student's life.