Dean, College Of Agriculture, Health & Natural Resources

 TITLE: DeanDIVISION: Division of Academic and Student AffairsCOLLEGE: College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural ResourcesREPORTS TO: Vice President and Provost CLASSIFICATION: Staff -12 monthsEFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2024STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per weekEMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt  POSITION SUMMARY:  Kentucky State University (KSU) seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. Reporting to the President and Vice President & Provost, the Dean will provide strategic direction and leadership in advancing the university's mission, vision, and core values to simultaneously enhance the overall student, staff, and faculty experiences at KSU. The ideal candidate is a leader who can support and navigate the academic environment of a growing R2 University in the Carnegie Classification for Institutions of Higher Education. Our college consists of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, and the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences. The College offers six undergraduate majors with various concentrations, ten certificates, and three graduate programs. In addition, our college has over 500 undergraduates and over 75 graduate students. The College is also home to the Agricultural Research and Cooperative Extension programs. These programs include the Harold R. Benson farm, the Environmental Education Research Center, and the newly purchased West farm.  As chief executive officer for the College, the Dean provides exemplary leadership toward realizing the goals of the university’s strategic plan. The Dean should have a deep knowledge and understanding of the history and role of 1890 land-grant universities and a proven commitment to interdisciplinary, cross-college collaboration to advance growth and research expansion. The Dean reports to the President and Vice President & Provost for the Division of Academic and Student Affairs. The Dean position also serves as a member of the Executive Leadership Cabinet at the discretion of the President.The Dean provides support and leadership to facilitate innovative solutions to technical, human and organizational challenges while leveraging strategically valuable opportunities and practicing effective change management. The Dean advances strategies to shape the future of the College, with a particular focus on catalyzing collaborative, mutually beneficial partnerships and inspiring a team of talented faculty, staff, and students. The dean is responsible for recruiting and retaining highly talented faculty and staff, growing enrollment, and supporting student success. The Dean also focuses on developing strong alumni relationships and external partnerships in support of fundraising activities. The successful candidate will have demonstrated administrative ability and possess an understanding of the philosophy and mission of a land-grant university. In addition, the successful candidate will have demonstrated budgeting, public relations, development, and personnel management experience. ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS: Academic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership for all academic programs within the designated college or department, ensuring alignment with the university's mission, goals, and accreditation standards.Curriculum Development: Oversee the development, review, and enhancement of academic curricula, ensuring relevance, rigor, and alignment with industry trends and academic standards.Faculty Development and Support: Foster a culture of academic excellence by recruiting, retaining, and developing a diverse faculty team. Provide support, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for faculty members to enhance teaching, research, and service contributions.Student Recruitment and Retention: Collaborate with admissions and enrollment management teams to develop recruitment strategies and initiatives to attract talented and diverse students to the college’s programs. Implement retention efforts, including academic support services, mentoring programs, and co-curricular activities, to enhance student success and graduation rates.Student Success Initiatives: Collaborate with faculty, staff, and other university stakeholders to develop and implement initiatives that support student success, retention, and graduation rates. Implement strategies to enhance student engagement, academic support services, and experiential learning opportunities.Budget and Resource Management: Develop and manage the college's budget in alignment with university priorities and financial constraints. Allocate resources effectively to support academic programs, faculty research, student scholarships, and facility needs. Develop and manage the land grant’s spending plan to ensure efficient and effective use of federal and state matching funds to advance the university’s mission, vision, and core values.Fundraising and Development: Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies with the Vice President for Strategic Advancement to secure financial support from alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and other sources. Cultivate relationships with potential donors and steward existing supporters to maximize philanthropic contributions for scholarships, research, facilities, and programs.Community Engagement and Partnerships: Cultivate relationships with external stakeholders, including industry partners, government agencies, alumni, and community organizations, to promote collaboration, fundraising, and support for academic programs and initiatives.Accreditation and Assessment: Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and regulatory requirements for academic programs within the college. Oversee assessment processes to evaluate program effectiveness, student learning outcomes, and continuous improvement efforts.Collaborative Ecosystem: Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the college, fostering a welcoming and inclusive academic environment for students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds.Research and Innovation: Support and promote faculty research, scholarship, and creative activities within the college. Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation initiatives to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the academic field.Strategic Planning and Evaluation: Collaborate with university administration, department chairs, and faculty committees to develop and implement strategic plans, goals, and performance metrics for the college. Conduct regular evaluations to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust strategies as needed.Policy Development and Compliance: Develop and enforce policies and procedures related to academic affairs, faculty governance, student conduct, and other relevant areas. Ensure compliance with university policies, state regulations, and federal laws.Marketing and Communications: Develop and implement marketing and communication strategies to promote the achievements, innovations, and impact of the college to internal and external audiences. Utilize various channels, including digital media, publications, events, and presentations, to enhance brand awareness and engagement.Crisis Management and Communication: Serve as a spokesperson and liaison for the college during emergencies, crises, or sensitive issues. Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to address concerns, mitigate risks, and maintain the college's reputation and credibility.Advocacy and Public Policy: Advocate for the college’s interests at the local, state, and federal levels, engaging policymakers, legislators, and regulatory agencies on issues related to agriculture, health, and Natural Resources. Monitor legislative developments, provide expert analysis, and influence policy decisions to support the college's mission and priorities.Professional Development and Training: Provide professional development opportunities and training programs for faculty, staff, and students within the college, fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence. Support faculty and staff in pursuing grants, awards, certifications, and other professional recognition.Data Analysis and Performance Metrics: Collect, analyze, and report data on key performance indicators, benchmarks, and outcomes related to the college’s strategic goals and initiatives. Use data-driven insights to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and make evidence-based decisions to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: Promote sustainability practices and environmental stewardship initiatives within the college’s programs, research projects, and operations. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate sustainability principles into curriculum development, research agendas, and community outreach efforts.Risk Management and Compliance: Identify potential risks, threats, and compliance issues related to the college’s operations, programs, and initiatives. Develop risk management strategies, policies, and procedures to mitigate liabilities, ensure regulatory compliance, and safeguard the college's reputation and assets. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIREDThe essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be an impactful Dean for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University:
Visionary Leadership:Knowledge: Understanding of trends, challenges, and opportunities in agriculture, health, and Natural Resources fields. Ability to develop a clear vision and strategic direction for the college.Skills: Leadership skills to inspire and motivate faculty, staff, and students towards shared goals. Ability to communicate a compelling vision and rally support for initiatives.Abilities: Capacity to envision and articulate innovative solutions to complex problems. Ability to lead change initiatives and adapt to evolving needs and priorities.Leading Change:Knowledge: Knowledge of change management principles and best practices. Understanding of organizational dynamics and resistance to change.Skills: Ability to assess the need for change, develop change strategies, and implement them effectively while minimizing disruption.Abilities: Capacity to anticipate and address challenges associated with change. Ability to foster a culture of innovation, flexibility, and continuous improvement within the college.Results Driven:Knowledge: Understanding of performance metrics, accountability frameworks, and outcomes assessment in higher education.Skills: Ability to set ambitious goals, develop action plans, and mobilize resources to achieve desired outcomes.Abilities: Capacity to monitor progress, track performance indicators, and adjust strategies as needed to ensure the attainment of goals and objectives.Business Acumen:Knowledge: Understanding of financial management principles, budgeting processes, and resource allocation in a higher education setting.Skills: Ability to develop and manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and identify opportunities for revenue generation and cost savings.Abilities: Capacity to make sound financial decisions, analyze financial data, and optimize resource utilization to support the college's mission and priorities.Building Coalitions:Knowledge: Knowledge of stakeholder engagement strategies, coalition-building techniques, and partnership development in academia.Skills: Ability to cultivate relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, industry partners, and community organizations.Abilities: Capacity to collaborate effectively across diverse constituencies, negotiate agreements, and leverage collective expertise and resources to advance shared goals and initiatives.By possessing these essential knowledge, skills, and abilities, a Dean for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University will be well-equipped to provide strategic leadership to advance the university's mission by developing a corporate culture that drives for results, serves customers, and builds successful teams and coalitions within and outside the organization.
  SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources Dean at Kentucky State University will be responsible for various functions and personnel to effectively lead and manage the portfolio of the college, schools, and student affairs programs. The supervisory responsibilities may include:Ethics and Compliance Personnel: Collaborating with ethics and compliance officers to ensure adherence to ethical standards, integrity, and compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations governing research, innovation, and school programs.External Partnerships and Collaborations: Coordinating with external partners, industry stakeholders, government agencies, and foundations to facilitate research collaborations, secure funding opportunities, and promote innovation.Leadership: Provide visionary leadership and direction to the college’s faculty, staff, and students, setting clear goals and expectations for performance. Motivate and inspire faculty and staff members to achieve excellence in their roles, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.Supervision and Development: Recruit, hire, train, and supervise professional and support staff within the College, ensuring that each team member is equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback, coaching, and professional development opportunities to support the growth and development of faculty and staff members. Foster a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and promotes teamwork, mutual respect, and professional growth.Team Building and Collaboration: Promote a culture of collaboration and teamwork among faculty and staff members, encouraging open communication, cooperation, and shared decision-making. Facilitate regular team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and training workshops to enhance team cohesion, foster creativity, and address challenges collaboratively. Encourage cross-functional collaboration and partnerships with other departments, units, and external stakeholders to maximize the impact and effectiveness of College initiatives and programs.Performance Management and Accountability: Set performance goals and objectives for the College in alignment with the university's mission and strategic priorities, and monitor progress towards achieving these goals. Hold faculty and staff members accountable for meeting performance expectations and achieving established targets, providing support and guidance as needed to overcome obstacles and address performance issues. Ensure compliance with university policies and procedures, as well as relevant federal regulations and accreditation standards, within the College and among its faculty and staff members.Conflict Resolution and Problem-Solving: Address conflicts and disagreements among faculty and staff members promptly and effectively, using mediation and conflict resolution techniques to promote understanding, reconciliation, and a positive work environment. Facilitate problem-solving processes and decision-making discussions within the College, encouraging faculty and staff members to collaborate in identifying creative solutions and implementing best practices to overcome challenges and achieve shared goals.Budget Management and Resource Allocation: Work closely with the Vice President for Academic Affairs and other university administrators to develop and manage the budget for the College, allocating resources strategically to support its programs, services, and initiatives. Monitor expenditures and financial performance, identifying opportunities to optimize resource utilization and maximize the return on investment in alignment with the College's strategic priorities and organizational goals. By effectively supervising and leading these key areas and personnel, the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources Dean at Kentucky State University will be crucial in advancing the university's enterprise, promoting innovation, and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration across the academic ecosystem. WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT: Ability to sit at a workstation for extended periodsOccasional ability to lift, carry, and put away parcels weighing up to 20 poundsNormal physical mobility, which includes movement from place to placeNormal physical strength to handle routine office materials and tools  Normal endurancePeriodic travel, including airline travel and overnight stays, may be required. OTHER DUTIES: In addition to the core responsibilities and supervisory duties, the Dean for the Center of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University may be assigned other duties as needed to support the university's strategic agenda. These additional duties may include:Institutional Representation: Serve as the primary representative for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources within the university community, as well as to external stakeholders, including government agencies, professional organizations, and community partners. Participate in university committees, task forces, and working groups related to international education, diversity, equity, and inclusion, contributing expertise and insights to inform institutional policies and initiatives.Grant Writing and Fundraising: Identify funding opportunities from government grants, private foundations, corporate sponsors, and other sources to support the College’s programs, scholarships, and research initiatives. Prepare grant proposals and fundraising appeals, in collaboration with university development officers and other stakeholders, to secure financial support for international education and student services.Research and Scholarship: Engage in scholarly research and publication in agricultural, health, or Natural Resources education, intercultural studies, or related disciplines, contributing to the academic discourse and advancing knowledge in the field. Collaborate with faculty members, researchers, and students on research projects, grant-funded initiatives, and scholarly publications that promote cross-cultural understanding and agricultural related competence.Crisis Management and Emergency Response: Develop and implement emergency preparedness plans and protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of faculty, staff, and scholars in the event of natural disasters, political unrest, or other emergencies. Serve as a resource and liaison to university administrators, campus safety officials, and external agencies during crisis situations, providing guidance and support to coordinate response efforts and assist affected individuals.Assessment and Program Evaluation: Design and implement assessment strategies and evaluation processes to measure the effectiveness and impact of the College’s programs, services, and initiatives on student learning outcomes, satisfaction, and retention. Collect and analyze data on student demographics, academic performance, and engagement in global learning activities to inform decision-making and continuous improvement efforts within the College.Professional Development and Advocacy: Participate in professional associations, conferences, and professional development opportunities to stay informed about current trends, best practices, and emerging issues in education, higher education policy, and land-grant affairs. Advocate for the interests and needs of our students, scholars, and learning initiatives within the university community and at the local, state, and national levels, promoting policies and practices that support their success and well-being. These additional duties may vary depending on Kentucky State University's evolving needs, priorities, and strategic direction and the broader landscape of academic and student affairs in higher education. The Dean for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources will be critical in advancing the university's mission and impact through effective leadership, collaboration, and strategic initiatives.  QUALIFICATIONS:  The ideal candidate will possess the following required minimum qualifications to be selected as the next Dean for the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University: Education: An earned doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent) in a field related to agriculture, health sciences, Natural Resources, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Experience:A minimum of five years of progressively responsible academic administrative experience at the department chair level or above within a higher education institution, preferably in a college or department related to agriculture, health sciences, or Natural Resources.Demonstrated leadership experience in strategic planning, curriculum development, faculty recruitment and development, budget management, and program assessment within an academic setting. Expertise:Comprehensive knowledge of academic programs, research, and outreach activities related to agriculture, health, and Natural Resources.Understanding of current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the fields of Agriculture, health sciences, and Natural Resources, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches and innovation. Leadership Skills:Strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire, motivate, and engage faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.Proven track record of fostering a culture of academic excellence, diversity, equity, and inclusion within an academic unit or organization. Communication Abilities:Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, industry partners, and community stakeholders.Demonstrated ability to represent the college effectively in public forums, media interviews, and other external communication activities. Strategic Thinking:Demonstrated ability to think strategically, analyze complex issues, and develop innovative solutions to achieve organizational goals and objectives.Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans, goals, and performance metrics to advance the mission and priorities of an academic unit or organization. Collaborative Approach:Proven ability to collaborate and build consensus among diverse stakeholders to achieve shared objectives and address common challenges.Experience in fostering partnerships and collaborations with internal and external constituencies, including other academic units, government agencies, industry partners, and community organizations. These minimum qualifications reflect the knowledge, skills, and experience required for effective leadership as the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University.
LICENSING AND CREDENTIALING:   The ideal Dean candidate will demonstrate various forms of licensing and credentialing documents to ensure minimum qualifications are met. Kentucky State University recognizes that an individual, through experience and testing, has the fundamental knowledge necessary to be an impactful administrator. Terminal Degree: A terminal degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent) in a field related to agriculture, health sciences, Natural Resources, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution is usually required. This serves as the foundational academic credential for individuals applying for leadership positions in higher education.Professional Certification (Optional): While not always mandatory, possessing professional certifications related to agriculture, health sciences, or Natural Resources can enhance the candidate's qualifications. For example, certifications from professional organizations such as the American Society of Agronomy, American Public Health Association, or Society of American Foresters may be beneficial, depending on the specific focus of the college and its programs.Administrative Experience: While not a licensing or credentialing requirement in the traditional sense, relevant administrative experience at the department chair level or above within a higher education institution is typically necessary. This experience serves as practical preparation for the demands of leading an academic unit such as the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources.Accreditation Knowledge: Familiarity with accreditation standards and processes relevant to programs within the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources may be beneficial. While not a specific credential, understanding accreditation requirements (e.g., from bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) can be essential for ensuring program quality and compliance.Continuing Education: Continuous learning and professional development are essential for effective leadership. While not strictly required for the Dean position, candidates are expected to engage in ongoing professional development activities, attend relevant conferences, workshops, and seminars, and stay updated on emerging trends, research, and best practices in their field. These licensing and credentialing requirements ensure that candidates for the Dean position at the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources possess the necessary educational background, administrative experience, and professional qualifications to lead effectively in an academic setting. Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply  Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa 
  KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.