Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA or the Academy), ranked among the best public institutions in the nation for its unrivaled return on investment and effectiveness in promoting social mobility, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of commandant of cadets/dean of students. The successful candidate will be expected to take office on or about June 1, 2022, or as soon as possible thereafter.

MMA is a fully accredited, four-year, co-educational state university offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are highly regarded in the worldwide maritime industry and beyond. Located at the mouth of the scenic Cape Cod Canal, the Academy is an hour’s drive from the thriving urban communities of Boston and Providence and offers easy access to the pristine beaches of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.

One of nine campuses of the Massachusetts state university system, MMA serves and prepares 1,700 undergraduate and graduate students for careers in the marine transportation, engineering, international maritime business, emergency management, and environmental fields. MMA has long offered a successful blend of career-focused education informed by strength in both an academic core and the discipline of regimental life. MMA graduates enjoy a competitive advantage in the marketplace: they are highly sought after due to their strong leadership qualities and work ethic.

Reporting to the vice president for student services, the commandant of cadets/dean of students oversees the daily functions of the Regiment of Cadets; promotes student safety, well-being, and success in a rigorous learning and living environment; and provides the expectations, opportunities, and support for cadets to pursue transformative experiences. This visible and highly collaborative administrator is responsible for all units within the Office of the Commandant of Cadets/Dean of Students, including orientation, housing, behavioral intervention team (care and advocacy), student conduct, student engagement and leadership development, student government association, and watch standing.

The commandant of cadets/dean of students collaborates across all segments of the institution to build and sustain programs, services, and networks of support for cadets; serves as a primary point of contact for crisis intervention with cadets; and is critically engaged in all aspects of the cadet experience, including daily activities and operations, conduct and discipline, and drills, ceremonies, and physical fitness. The position manages a $1.3 million budget, supervises eight professional staff members, and is responsible for the selection, training, and ongoing support and development of more than 100 student leaders.

Requirements include a master’s degree and at least five years of relevant experience, preferably in an environment with a demanding curriculum encompassing academic rigor, physical fitness, and regimental life. Previous maritime academy experience or a military service background that includes command experience is desirable. The successful candidate will also demonstrate proven leadership ability, a passion for working with students, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and an affinity for the distinctive mission and character of the Academy.

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled; complete applications received by February 21, 2022, will be assured full consideration. A resume with an accompanying cover letter may be submitted via the Spelman Johnson website at www.spelmanjohnson.com/open-positions. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson by phone at 413-529-2895 or email at info@spelmanjohnson.com.

Confidential inquiries and nominations should be directed to Jim Norfleet, Practice Leader and Senior Consultant, at jmn@spelmanjohnson.com

Visit the Massachusetts Maritime Academy website at www.maritime.edu

MMA is an AA/EEO/Veteran/Disabled employer. We strongly encourage members from historically underrepresented communities, women, and veterans to apply.

Finalists must complete a pre-employment drug screening, background check, and COVID-19 vaccine verification.