Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of Faculty

Graceland University invites nominations and applications for a dynamic and inspiring academic professional to fill the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty

THE UNIVERSITY

Since 1895, Graceland University has been developing students into people who will change the world by giving them the best experience and education possible. Graceland believes that providing a strong liberal arts learning environment — at the main residential campus in Lamoni, the Independence campus, and through online programs — is just one piece of the puzzle. Just as important are the amazing faculty, who care about their students’ success; the fun, on-campus activities that build forever friendships; and the powerful sense of place and belonging cultivated every day.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The university seeks an enthusiastic, experienced, and entrepreneurial leader who will be key to building and shaping an increasingly exceptional academic program – one that will include both new and revised programs and will appeal to both traditional and non-traditional students. 

The new VPAA/Dean of Faculty will engage with Graceland President Dr. Patricia H. Draves; a deeply committed faculty; an experienced administrative team; and an active, engaged board of trustees. Together these groups will continue to develop and implement an innovative and strategic academic program that builds upon its rich history and leads to the development of graduates prepared for success and fulfillment.

The VPAA/Dean of Faculty serves as the chief academic officer of the university and is responsible for advancing the university’s educational mission and the evolving academic program. In fulfilling this role, this person functions as the leader of, and advocate for the academic programs and the faculty, a member of the Executive Council and the chief liaison to the Academic Affairs Committee of the Board of Trustees. The VPAA/Dean of Faculty oversees the work of the academic units, as well as administrative offices including the registrar, library, instructional design, and academic support areas.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Doctoral degree in an academic area of specialization, or in business or education
• Ten years of higher ed experience with a minimum of five years as an academic administrator
• Experience involving professional, graduate and undergraduate programs
• Academic credentials consistent with the rank of professor
• Distinguished record of teaching, scholarly publications, and accomplishments demonstrating commitment to academic excellence
• Experience in strategic planning, program assessment, and development of policy
• Demonstrated success in shaping and developing faculty and creating collaborative relationships across all academic disciplines

LEADERSHIP AND ABILITIES

• Courageous leadership and collaborative skills
• Sound fiscal management and data-based decision making
• An entrepreneurial spirit
• Embracing of emerging technologies
• Successful track record establishing and maintaining relationships with the community, faculty, students, staff and Board of Trustees
• Willing to enthusiastically represent the University at public events
• Understanding of contemporary issues in higher education

For more information, please review the Position Profile on our website.  If the direct link doesn’t work in this advertisement, please go to https://eflassociates.cbiz.com/ and click on Open Positions and Higher Education. 

THE SEARCH FIRM

EFL Associates (https://eflassociates.cbiz.com), an executive search firm, is assisting Graceland University with its search for this important leadership position.  All calls and inquiries should be made through the search firm. Nominations and applications will be held in strict confidence and candidates will remain confidential until the final stage of the search, at which time the express permission of finalists will be obtained before making their candidacy public. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

• STEP 1: Complete a brief online application (2-3 minutes):  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GracelandVPAA

• STEP 2: Send us your letter of interest and résumé or curriculum vitae:
• Send in PDF format please
• Sent to ApplyHigherEd@eflassociates.com
• Email subject line should read Graceland University, Vice President, Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty

*You must complete both steps to be considered as a candidate

KEY DATES

• Application deadline is January 28, 2022
• Semi-Finalist Interviews are tentatively scheduled for February 21, 2022
• Campus Interviews are tentatively scheduled for week of March 14, 2022
• The desired start date is July 1, 2022, but is negotiable

CONFIDENTIAL INQUIRES

Steve Waldron, JD

Managing Director, Higher Education Practice

816-945-5423 (direct)

swaldron@eflassociates.com

APPLICATION QUESTIONS & NOMINATIONS

If you would like to provide a nomination, please email all pertinent information (including an email address and phone number of the nominee) to:

Ms. Michelle Peterson

Senior Recruiter, Higher Education Practice

816-945-5404 (direct)

Michelle.Peterson@eflassociates.com

Equal Opportunity Employment has been, and will continue to be, a fundamental principle at Graceland University, where employment is based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination because of race, color, creed, gender identity, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic by law. This policy applies to all policies and procedures relating to recruitment and hiring, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment. Questions or concerns should be referred to the Human Resources Office at personnel@graceland.edu.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and complete employment eligibility verification paperwork.