President

President

Drexel University

Drexel University invites nominations and applications for the position of President.

Drexel is a comprehensive, global R1-level research university with a unique model of experiential learning that combines academic rigor with one of the nation’s premier cooperative education programs. Drexel integrates education, scholarship, diverse partnerships, and its global community to address society’s most pressing challenges through an inclusive learning environment, immersive experiential learning, external partnerships, transdisciplinary and applied research, and creative activity. Drexel prepares graduates of diverse backgrounds to become purpose-driven professionals and agents for positive change.

Founded in 1891 in Philadelphia, Drexel has built its global reputation on core achievements that include Drexel co-op, history, and research. Drexel engages with students and communities around the world:

• Three Philadelphia campuses and other regional sites;
• The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the nation’s oldest major natural science museum and research organization;
• International research partnerships, including China and Israel; and
• Drexel Online Education, one of the first and most successful providers of online degree programs

Drexel has 21,703 students with total revenues of approximately $1 billion and more than $966 million in endowment assets.

Launched in 2020, Drexel is underway on an ambitious, ten-year strategic plan, Drexel 2030 – Designing the Future that provides a road map for the University to fulfill its mission, better the campus experience, and enhance community impact. Drexel has identified six imperatives that will guide the University in building a sustainable culture of education, scholarship, and collaboration:

• Set the standard for cutting edge, adaptable curricula;
• Enhance and expand high-quality, immersive learning experiences;
• Expand Drexel’s research impact;
• Empower students to be purpose-driven, global citizens;
• Harness the power of partnership; and
• Foster and strengthen an inclusive and equity driven culture

Thanks to its longstanding commitment to innovation, Drexel has always been at the frontiers of higher education. From market-responsive degree programs to experiential learning, to its strong connection to industry and early embrace of technology: Drexel has frequently found itself “ahead of its time,” making strategic bets in the name of expanding learning and student success.

The next President will leverage the institutional foresight and, importantly, lead Drexel to double-down on its distinctive assets and execute against a strong strategic plan. Specifically, Drexel has put into place measures to help the University adapt and transform into an even more agile, innovative, financially sustainable, and consequential version of itself. These measures include both the University’s strategic plan as well as an academic restructuring as recommended by a University-wide committee.

The President must lead with clear communication, a collaborative spirit, and strong delegation skills, while balancing creativity, risk-taking, and a tolerance for the ambiguity of an ever-changing landscape. The role requires a blend of effective decision-making, engagement with internal and external stakeholders, and a robust fundraising ability. The President will expend considerable time and energy working with external constituencies to generate the resources the University needs to carry on and expand its operations and enhance its profile. Therefore, the next President should demonstrate a growth mindset and a proven track record in fundraising, as well as demonstrated adeptness in communication, negotiation, and diplomacy.

The next President must present innovative and forward-thinking vision, stay informed on best practices and challenges in higher education, and rally key stakeholders around Drexel’s strategic plan. They must also be adaptable to changes and lead any necessary strategic adjustments.

Initial screening of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Drexel University will be assisted by Jackie Zavitz, Ellen Brown Landers, J.J. Cutler, Meghan Ashbrock, and Sulli Cressler of Heidrick & Struggles, Inc.

Nominations and applications should be directed to: DrexelPresident@heidrick.com.

Drexel University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and believes that an inclusive and respectful environment enriches the University community and the educational and employment experience of its members. The University prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, status as a veteran or special disabled veteran, gender identity or expression, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions and any other prohibited characteristic.