COVID-19 changed the world including the decision making of academic nurse leaders. Crisis management became the norm. Nursing academic leaders were in crisis management mode with or without experience in academic crisis management decision making during the pandemic thus reflecting on actions taken during the onset of the pandemic March 11, 2020, to September 30, 2021. This study looks at the decisions made by nursing academic leaders as they reflect on their strengths and weaknesses potentially affecting program outcomes. Of the 15 participants only one had any specific training in crisis management. The responses described motivation to maintain the nursing program but also concerns for the stakeholders and the effectiveness of communication. The outcomes of the qualitative study will affect future policies within the nursing programs and the way nursing academic leaders continue to lead. A recommendation for future new hire academic nursing chairs/deans is discussed including a policy example and training framework. [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.]