Dean of Students

Luther College, a residential liberal arts college in Decorah, Iowa, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its next Dean of Students. This is an on-site leadership role.

Founded in 1890 by Norwegian pioneers, Luther College, with a current enrollment of 1400 and growing, continues the distinctive tradition of Lutheran higher education through its commitment to the advancement of knowledge, thoughtful inquiry and questioning, and the preparation of citizens in service to the world and its ongoing reform. Luther is located in rural Decorah, northeast Iowa, a regional hub for outdoor recreation, two nationally recognized healthcare systems, top-ranked schools, business, agriculture, specialty retail, dining, and tourism.  Midwest metropolitan areas within a three-hour driving distance include Des Moines, Iowa; Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota; and Madison, Wisconsin.  Additionally, Luther is an easy 90-minute drive to La Crosse, Wisconsin, Cedar Falls/Waterloo, Iowa, and Rochester, Minnesota, home of the Mayo Clinic.

Reporting to the provost, serving on the deans council and the president’s senior leadership team, the dean of students joins deans in academic affairs and student success to create synergy and a dynamic and holistic student experience. The dean provides leadership, vision, and administrative oversight for community standards, counseling, Nena Amundson Lifetime Wellness Program, residence life, student activities and the college union, student activities council (SAC), and serves as the administrative liaison to the outsourced student health service. The dean serves as an advocate for students and leads the dean of students departmental staff, student groups, faculty, and other members of the college community to develop co-curricular programming, ensuring integration with the academic life of the institution, supporting learning and development of students outside the classroom, and encouraging student personal growth and development. The dean assists in creating an inclusive and culturally competent campus community and conveys a passion for student development and innovative thinking that enhances opportunities for students. The dean oversees an operational budget nearing $1.9 million and leads a staff of 18 with five direct reports.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess a master’s or doctoral degree in student development theory or a related field in student affairs and a record of progressive development in leadership with increasing levels of responsibility over time, including supervision of staff, budget management, and operational acumen, ideally with direct supervisory experience in one of the units reporting to the dean of students. The dean of students will bring deep experience engaging with college students, a forward-looking lens, a strong work ethic, and a collegial spirit.

Application and Nomination

Luther College has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin April 16, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://apptrkr.com/6101675

• Contact Anne-Marie Kenney at amk@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries and salary information.

• 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 Luther College website at www.luther.edu

It is the policy of Luther College to provide equal educational opportunities and equal access to facilities for all qualified persons. The college does not discriminate in employment, educational programs, and activities on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal or state law.

Requirements

• Start Date: No Start Date
• Education: Master's Degree Required
• Work Experience: 0 - 2 years
• Part/Full Time: Full-Time

Contact / Additional Information