The Associate Vice President for Student Life facilitates a superior student experience
through student engagement in positive and purposeful activities, assessment of programs
and services, and effective partnerships within and beyond the university. The Associate
Vice President is an educator and seeks opportunities to strengthen student growth
and development through teachable moments and student accountability. As the key contact
for student issue management and resolution, the AVP is an important member of the
University’s emergency management team. The Associate Vice President manages the administration
of all policies, programs, services, facilities, and budgets within the Department
of Student Life and leads a dynamic staff.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Supervision
Oversee a large and diverse staff, including 82 full-time and 600 part-time employees,
ensuring effective recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management.
Student Engagement & Program Development
Enhance student engagement by assessing and refining student life programs and services
based on data, national best practices, and institutional priorities.
Issue Resolution & Risk Management
Address complex student issues related to governance, policies, multicultural affairs,
and campus activities while mitigating risks in high-profile areas.
Collaboration & Campus Partnerships
Work with academic leadership, enrollment services, and student organizations to support
student recruitment, retention, and success.
Community & External Relations
Serve as the university’s liaison for student-related matters with neighborhood associations,
media, government agencies, parents, and religious organizations.
Student Government Advisement
Guide and support student leaders in developing initiatives and projects that align
with the university’s mission and resources.
Crisis Management & Emergency Response
Play a critical role in university crisis management teams, ensuring effective response
to student-related emergencies and campus-wide incidents.
Preferred Candidate Qualifications
A doctorate in higher education administration or a related field.
At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education administration.
Proven experience supervising a large and diverse staff, including full-time and part-time
employees.
Strong ability to lead, develop, and support student leaders and staff across multiple
departments.
Skilled in issue resolution, risk mitigation, and managing sensitive student affairs
matters.
Deep understanding of student engagement and development principles.
Experience in designing and assessing student life programs that enhance student success.
Ability to create an inclusive and supportive environment for a broad student population.
Demonstrated ability to work across campus divisions to support student retention
and engagement.
Experience fostering partnerships with academic departments, campus leadership, and
external stakeholders.
Strong decision-making skills with a data-informed approach to program development.
Expertise in crisis management and emergency response within a university setting.
Knowledge of legal issues affecting campus life and student behavior.
Ability to manage community relations, including partnerships with local agencies,
media, and neighborhood associations.
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires a bachelor’s degree and at least 12 years of experience, including some prior
management experience.
