Bluffton University invites applications for the position of Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students to begin on or about July 1, 2012. Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students will serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet and as the chief student affairs officer of the university. She/he will provide strategic leadership and vision for student life programs, services, planning, and assessment to foster student development and success. Additional responsibilities include serving as an advocate for students, supporting the development of a strong campus community, and working collaboratively with faculty and other campus offices to strengthen the linkage between co-curricular and academic programs to engage students and enhance learning.
The Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students will provide oversight of residence life, campus ministries, multicultural affairs, career development, the student Leadership Development Program, the student union (includes conferences, dining services, bookstore, mailroom, orientation, and student activities), and the student health center (campus nurse and campus counselor).
An advanced degree is required; a doctorate in student personnel, higher education administration, or related field is preferred. Candidates should have five or more years of progressively responsible student-affairs experience. Strong leadership, supervisory, interpersonal communication and problem-solving/decision-making skills are required, as is a demonstrated commitment to student development and learning within the context of a Christian educational community informed by values of the Anabaptist/Mennonite peace church tradition.
Bluffton University is a residential, liberal arts university affiliated with Mennonite Church USA and has a total enrollment of 1,200 students. They come from a wide variety of faith traditions and geographic areas. Bluffton's program is built upon the enduring values of discovery, community, respect, and service. Additional campus information can be found at www.bluffton.edu.
Interested individuals should send a letter of application, resume, a completed supplemental application form and three letters of reference to:
Sally Siferd
Assistant to the President
Bluffton University
1 University Drive
Bluffton, OH 45817-2104
e-mail: siferds@bluffton.edu
phone: 419-358-3324
Review of applications will begin on Feb. 15, 2012, and will continue until the position is filled.
Bluffton University welcomes applications from all qualified applicants who respect the Anabaptist/Mennonite peace church tradition and wholly endorse Christian higher education in a liberal arts environment. AA/EOE. Members of under-represented groups are encouraged to apply.
