The University of Michigan (U-M), the state’s public flagship university and one of the world’s preeminent research universities, invites inquiries, nominations and applications for the position of vice president for student life to succeed the retiring incumbent.

Now operating in the beginning of its third century, U-M continues its mission to develop leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. Currently, the main campus in Ann Arbor has an enrollment of 46,000 students, about a third of whom are in graduate and professional studies, and a tenured and tenure-track faculty of nearly 3,200 (total faculty of over 7,200 and a total staff of more than 15,000). U-M is consistently ranked among the top institutions of higher education globally with 263 degree programs, a 97 percent first-year student retention rate and 102 graduate programs ranked in the top 10 nationally. In addition to the main campus and medical center, the university has regional campuses in Flint and Dearborn.

From its status as one of the first universities in the nation to admit women in 1870, to its historic defense of race-conscious admission policies at the United States Supreme Court in 2003, U-M continues to lead the way in making higher education accessible to all. In the fall of 2016, after a yearlong period of intense planning, U-M launched its five-year strategic plan for diversity, equity, and inclusion, which signified the university’s renewed pledge for developing a diverse university community while creating an inclusive and equitable campus climate.

The vice president for student life is responsible for providing vision, leadership and effective management of Student Life units and functions. The vice president for student life is an executive officer of the university and serves as a member of the university's executive team. The position reports to the University president and is a key advisor to the president especially on matters involving students and student life. The vice president works closely with the president, the executive team, deans, faculty, staff, students and the Board of Regents to strengthen a collaborative university-wide effort to support students. The vice president currently has seven direct reports: a senior associate vice president; (3) associate vice presidents; a dean of students; an executive assistant; and an ombudsperson.

Student Life consists of the following major units which report to the vice president: Dean of Students Office; University Housing; University Unions; University Health Services (UHS); Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS); Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center (SAPAC); Office of the Ombuds; Services for Students with Disabilities; Student Legal Services; Office of Student Conflict Resolution; Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs; Program on Intergroup Relations; Edward Ginsberg Center for Community Service & Learning; William Monroe Trotter Multicultural Center; Spectrum Center; Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life; International Center; University Career Center; and Recreational Sports.

An advanced degree in a relevant discipline and a strong academic orientation are essential. A doctorate is preferred. Demonstrated leadership skills; a record of outstanding achievement as a senior member of the leadership team at a large complex university with a highly regarded Student Life program; and substantial experience working with individuals and groups in a residential academic community are required. Significant leadership and management experience in complex higher education environments, including strong financial and budget management skills, is necessary for success in this position. The ideal candidate will also possess a passionate commitment to the education, development and empowerment of young people and the ability to elicit their trust and regard; a current understanding of student issues and a keen sensitivity to the changing patterns of student experiences and family dynamics; familiarity with legal issues affecting students and the issues, problems and trends that affect the management of Student Life programs; and a demonstrated understanding of and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and demonstrated measurable achievement in addressing the challenges of a diverse student body. Experience with fundraising and the stewardship of university donors would be helpful.

Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. For fullest consideration, applicant materials should be received by November 9, 2019. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Candidates should provide a resume or curriculum vitae and a letter of application that addresses the candidate’s experience and qualifications relative to the responsibilities and requirements described. Candidate confidentiality will be respected to the highest degree allowable under the laws of the State of Michigan. Application materials may be submitted via the Spelman Johnson website at www.spelmanjohnson.com/open-positions. Nominations for this position may be emailed to Mark Hall at mah@spelmanjohnson.com. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895.

The University of Michigan is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.