Iowa State University is one of the most student-centered public research universities in the nation. It is a place where adventurous minds are encouraged to accomplish amazing things. As an internationally respected university ranked in the top tier of public universities by U.S. News and World Report and an invited member of the Association of American Universities, Iowa State offers a student adventure rich in social and academic diversity. More than 33,300 students choose from 100 majors and hone their leadership skills in more than 900 clubs and student organizations. Iowa State’s land-grant research initiatives from its 100 centers and institutes help solve society’s greatest challenges and offer students opportunities to learn from and work alongside world-class scholars and researchers. A culturally diverse student body with students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries converge on one of the nation's most beautiful campuses. Big 12 Conference sports and a tradition of international cultural performances make campus life an adventure to remember. Iowa State is located in Ames, a community of 67,000 ranked as the number one “Best College Town in America” by 247WallSt.com and among the top 10 best places to live in America.

Reporting to the senior vice president for student affairs, the associate vice president and dean of students (“AVPDS”) provides leadership within the division of student affairs in advancing the mission and goals of the division, coordinating efforts within the units and with other University operations through development of strong communication and working relationships, contribution to executive decision making, and implementation of plans. The AVPDS is responsible for supporting student-centered learning through personal, community and academic development programs. This position will create opportunities for students to be academically successful and challenge students to be independent, responsible learners; provide leadership for student-life functions that promote civility, celebrate diversity and promote an inclusive campus climate; and implement programs and services that empower students as leaders and promote a sense of belonging for every student at Iowa State. Further, the AVPDS identifies and communicates student opinions to the faculty and administration and, at the same time, communicates and explains the reasons underlying University policies and regulations to students. The AVPDS provides leadership for the academic success center; center for LGBTQIA+ student success; Hixson opportunity awards; international students and scholars office; Margaret Sloss center for women and gender equity; office of multicultural student affairs; national student exchange; parent and family programs; office of sorority and fraternity engagement; student accessibility services; office of student assistance; office of student conduct; student legal services; student support services; TRIO student support services program; veterans center; and writing and media center. The AVPDS is responsible for an overall budget of over $7 million and supervision of 61 professional staff, 12 merit staff and 41 graduate assistants.

The successful candidate must possess a doctorate or equivalent professional degree in higher education or a closely related field and five years of related progressive experience in higher education with leadership responsibilities in student programs. The ideal candidate will possess experience collaborating with faculty and staff to provide educational programs and services that improve student success and retention; experience leading teams, operating in cross-functional settings, and managing crises; experience which demonstrates a strong background in the research and assessment necessary to supervise research on student needs and issues; and experience which demonstrates knowledge of current trends in higher education. In addition, candidates must possess an ability to effectively manage multiple competing priorities and coordinate complex administrative operations; strong writing skills are needed for preparing and interpreting policy statements; a demonstrated commitment to the ideals and principles of multiculturalism, social justice, and diversity; strong human relations skills; and effective management, motivation, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.

Review of applications will begin February 28, 2020 and continue until the position is filled. A resume with an accompanying cover letter may be submitted via the Spelman Johnson website at www.spelmanjohnson.com/open-positions. Nominations for this position may be emailed to Laura Puckett-Boler at lpb@spelmanjohnson.com. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895.

Visit the Iowa State University website at www.iastate.edu

Iowa State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against.