Description

Iowa State University, a public institution in Ames, Iowa, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students. This is an on-site leadership role.

Iowa State University (Iowa State) is one of the nation's leading land-grant universities. By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive land-grant mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State, we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities.

Reporting to the senior vice president for student affairs, the associate vice president and dean of students (AVPDS) at Iowa State University 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, contributing to executive decision making, and implementing strategic plans. The AVPDS is responsible for supporting student-centered learning through personal, community, and academic development programs. The AVPDS supervises 16 departments, is responsible for an overall budget of over $8 million, and provides leadership for 71 professional staff, 5 merit staff, 32 graduate students, and 242 student employees.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $170,000-$237,850, commensurate with experience.

QUALIFICATIONS
An earned master's degree or equivalent professional degree in higher education or a closely related field, and ten years of related progressive experience in higher education with leadership responsibilities in student programs, are required. 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 the ability to manage multiple competing priorities and coordinate complex administrative operations effectively; strong writing skills for preparing and interpreting policy statements; a demonstrated commitment to the ideals and principles of student engagement and belonging; demonstrated human relations skills; and effective management, motivation, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.

APPLICATION AND NOMINATION

Iowa State University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin March 13, , 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/associate-vice-president-for-student-affairs-and-dean-of-students/

• Contact Mark Hall at mah@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.
• Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

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

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, creed, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu

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