Dean of the School of Education and Human Development
Fairfield University

Fairfield University, a modern Jesuit Catholic university, invites applications and nominations for the position of the Dean of the School of Education and Human Development. Fairfield University seeks an exceptional leader with a record of academic scholarship and a forward-looking vision for the future of the fields of education and human development. The new Dean will have the opportunity to shape and pursue the School's bold strategic vision that furthers the School's reputation and commitment to distinguished academic programs, teaching excellence, and community collaborations that further the mission of the University.

REPORTS TO: Provost

DIVISION: Academics

DEPARTMENT: School of Education and Human Development

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION:

• Terminal degree in a discipline represented by the school or a closely related field

• Exemplary record of teaching, scholarship, and service that merits appointment as a member of the faculty at Fairfield University

• Experience in a leadership role in an academic environment

DESIRED QUALITIES:

• Demonstrated commitment to - or sincere interest in - the Jesuit Catholic mission of Fairfield University, including but not limited to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and Catholic Social Teaching as they relate to issues of social justice in education and the helping professions

• A background of academic achievement, professional experience, and career accomplishments that provides the foundation for passionate leadership as a Dean of a School of Education and Human Development

• Knowledge of and commitment to professions in the fields of both education (i.e., teaching, consulting, leadership) and human development (i.e., counseling, marriage and family therapy, social work, psychology); and ability to articulate a clear vision for an integrated academic unit that includes both

• Prior experience or demonstrated evidence of ability to engage in strategic planning to advance a clear vision for the school that is aligned with the University' strategic priorities in ways that both raise the profile of the School within the University and help to promote the prominence of the University

• Knowledge of best-practices in the recruitment, admissions and support of graduate student learners across program modalities (face to face, hybrid and on-line), and ability to support graduate program directors and faculty in the implementation of those practices to grow and sustain graduate student enrollments

• Knowledge of or demonstrated interest in best-practices for undergraduate education and student support in order to promoted undergraduate program development and grow undergraduate enrollment in the School

• Prior experience or demonstrated evidence of innovation and entrepreneurship leading to new revenue generation in an academic environment

• A track record of using business acumen, marketing ability, and financial skills successfully in an academic leadership position

• Demonstrated ability to manage a complex organization and work effectively with colleagues at the School, University, and Community level

• Ability to establish and cultivate relationships with donors, corporate and foundation partners, and alumni, and experience with grant writing to generate external funding to support the school's strategic initiatives

• Demonstrated ability to encourage and nurture teaching excellence and research activities among faculty in ways that promote the academic reputation of the School and University

• Demonstrated interest and success in developing strategic alliances and collaborations with community partners for purposes of facilitating community-engaged learning and community-engaged scholarship opportunities

• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially as it relates to access to education and mental health services for children and families from underrepresented populations

• Expertise and experience with accreditation and with outcomes assessment that is critical to successful accreditation efforts

• Ability to lead effectively in a shared governance environment, characterized by a leadership style of consensus building and teamwork

• A commitment to visibility characterized by a leadership style of presence, approachability and openness to faculty and staff as well as the recognition by other senior leaders and community partners

• Strong communication, conflict resolution and collaboration skills

• Fair, firm and consistent management and decision-making abilities

• Strong work ethic coupled effective interpersonal skills and a sense of humor

In order to be considered, please apply through the Fairfield University employment page.

In-depth overview can be viewed here.

All inquiries, questions, and nominations shall be confidential and should be directed to both Michael Tortora and Christopher Frulla.

Michael G. Tortora '01, MBA '07

Associate Vice Provost & Chief of Staff to the Provost

Office of the Provost
mtortora@fairfield.edu
 

Christopher Frulla

Director, Talent Management

Human Resources
cfrulla@fairfield.edu