Dean of College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Dean of College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Recruitment #:       S2488

Review Date:         Immediate review | Open until filled

Department:          College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Salary Rate:           $140,620 - $165,440

About Western Oregon University:

Western Oregon University is a regional public, mid-sized university – committed to changing lives, strengthening communities and transforming our world. Located in Monmouth, the heart of Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, WOU is about 20 minutes from Salem, the state’s capital and about 75 minutes from Portland, the state’s cultural hub. 

Western is one of Oregon’s oldest public institutions of higher education and was incorporated into the state system as a teacher training institution in 1882. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in arts and sciences, education and professional areas. It’s known for small class sizes, a focus on sustainability and a diverse liberal arts education in a student-centered environment. Western is an emerging Hispanic Serving institution, with 41% of undergraduates being students of color.

Position Summary:

The Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences serves as the academic leader and chief academic officer of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, guiding its efforts to advance the college's contributions to the university's strategic plan. As a regional public university committed to providing a personalized learning environment, we are dedicated to empowering our students to make meaningful contributions locally and beyond. We seek an innovative and visionary leader to guide the College in realizing this vision, promoting the values of a public liberal arts education in fostering the skills essential to navigating the complexities of life and work. 

Within this context, the Dean guides and supports curriculum development, assessment, and program enhancement, advocating for the college’s students, faculty, and staff, while also overseeing and ensuring effective management of the college’s personnel and budget. Representing the college on university committees, the Dean ensures alignment with the University’s Strategic Plan and fosters collaboration among students, faculty, and staff both within the college and in the wider community.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and contribute to the mission and vision of Western Oregon University. We invite candidates who are committed to student success, excellence in teaching, inclusive leadership, and community engagement to apply for this critical role.

     Click here for the complete position description which includes knowledge areas and preferred qualifications.

 

Required Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., J.D., Ed.D.)
• Active listening skills to foster collaboration and understanding.
• Experience advancing diversity, inclusion, and equity in higher education (3-5 years).
• Knowledge of trends in higher education.
• Strong and effective communication skills.
• Experience managing complex budgets and financial statements (3-5 years).
• Skilled in personnel management, including effective hiring and retention practices (3-5 years).
• Experience making data-informed decisions to drive organizational success (3-5 years).
• Record of teaching, scholarship, and service, with the potential for appointment as a professor within the college.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a shared governance system 
• Demonstrated success in securing external funding for institutional initiatives (1-2 years).
• Experience in a 4-year public or private university environment (3-5 years).

Required Application materials: You may submit all materials online at www.wou.edu/prostaffapp

1. WOU Employment Application form available here - unclassified/faculty
2. Cover Letter that addresses your qualifications for the position 
3. Resume/CV
4. Name and contact information for 3 professional references

Background/Education Check:

A criminal background check will be completed as a condition of employment. Education checks are processed for positions requiring a formal degree as a minimum requirement.

Benefits:                
Western Oregon University offers an excellent benefits package for eligible employees which includes 95% premium paid healthcare, a generous retirement and vacation package, and reduced tuition rates for employee, spouse or dependent at any of the Oregon Public Universities. http://www.wou.edu/hr/benefits/

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Western Oregon University is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage people of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. We embrace our differences and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success. 

Accommodation Requests:

Western Oregon University is committed to developing a barrier-free recruitment process and work environment. If you would like to request disability-related accommodation(s) to participate in a WOU activity or event, please complete the online request form at least three (3) business days in advance. If you have questions, contact Disability Services (ODS) at 503-838-8250 or ods@wou.edu.

Veterans Preference
Applicants are eligible to use Veterans' Preference when applying with Western Oregon University in accordance with ORS 408.225, 408.230 and 408.235; and OAR 105-040-0010 and 105-040-0015. Preference will be given only if the applicant meets the minimum criteria of the position and electronically attach the required documentation at the time of application. For information regarding Veterans' Preference qualifications, visit http://www.oregonjobs.org/DAS/STJOBS/vetpoints.shtmlq

To stay informed about the progress of this search, we invite and encourage you to explore our career page at wou.edu/hr/employment/jobs/. Unfortunately, due to the volume, it is challenging for us to offer individual updates on the status of each application, and for that, we sincerely regret any inconvenience. We thank you for your patience and interest in employment at Western Oregon University.