Academic Dean

Job Details

Future Generations University seeks an entrepreneurial and mission-driven Academic Dean to serve as the chief academic leader of its innovative graduate program in Applied Community Development. This role is ideal for a builder — someone who can strengthen academic programming, expand partnerships, and actively contribute to fundraising and external engagement.

As the Chief Academic Officer, the Dean will both oversee the academic program on a day-to-day basis and shape the next phase of the University’s growth by advancing Future Generations’ distinctive model of applied, community-embedded education.

About Future Generations University

Future Generations University is an accredited globally oriented graduate institution dedicated to inclusive and sustainable community change. Our mission is to advance research, learning, and action towards inclusive and sustainable community change worldwide. Through applied education, research, and partnerships, the University supports learners and practitioners working on issues such as climate resilience, equity, sustainable livelihoods, and community leadership. Its flagship master’s program combines online learning, field-based experience, and community practice, reaching learners across more than 50 countries. Headquartered in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, our scenic hub is located on top of North Fork Mountain near Franklin, West Virginia, at the headwaters of the Potomac River. Learn more: future.edu.

Key Priorities of the Role

1. Academic Program Development

• Lead the ongoing evolution of the MA in Applied Community Development, including the development of new courses and microcredential opportunities.
• Ensure academic quality, coherence, and alignment with accreditation expectations.
• Encourage innovative pedagogy grounded in applied, community-based learning.
• Support program assessment and continuous improvement.

2. Partnerships and External Engagement

• Build strategic partnerships with universities, NGOs, foundations, and community-based organizations.
• Strengthen pathways for collaboration with global and regional networks (including Appalachia and international partners).
• Represent the University with credibility among academic, philanthropic, and practitioner communities.
• Cultivate relationships that support student recruitment, program growth, and shared initiatives.

3. Fundraising and Resource Development

• Collaborate closely with the President and advancement leadership to support fundraising.
• Contribute to grant development and foundation and/or partner relationships.
• With assistance from the communications department, help articulate compelling academic and programmatic priorities for external audiences.
• Serve as a visible ambassador for the University’s mission and impact.

4. Academic Leadership and Administration

• Serve as Chief Academic Officer, reporting to the President.
• Chair the Dean’s Council, the academic governance body of the University.
• Recruit, supervise, and support faculty and instructional staff.
• Ensure that all faculty meet institutional and accreditation qualification standards.
• Lead efforts to increase faculty research productivity, enhance scholarly impact of faculty and alumni, and support career milestones by developing a robust publications program
• Oversee admissions, student success, and academic policies.
• Work with the University’s Accreditation Liaison Officer to ensure compliance with accreditation and regulatory expectations.
• Foster a collaborative, mission-aligned academic culture.

Desired Background and Qualities

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A doctoral degree or terminal degree in a related field of study
• Senior experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and/or applied education settings
• A strong commitment to community-based, justice-oriented, and/or sustainability-focused work
• Experience developing academic programs or innovative learning models
• Experience maintaining third-party accreditation
• Comfort building partnerships across sectors and geographies
• Ability to contribute meaningfully to fundraising and external engagement
• Strong communication skills (oral and written) and strategic thinking
• An entrepreneurial mindset suited to a small, mission-driven institution

Candidates from diverse academic, professional, and institutional backgrounds (including community colleges, international education, NGOs, and interdisciplinary programs) are encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications, with an anticipated range of $95,000 - $100,000. Benefits include:

• Retirement Matching (up to $200 per pay period)
• Health, Dental & Vision Plan available (employer pays 80% of employee & 50% of dependent premiums)
• Medical and Dependent Care FSA available
• Flexible work schedule which is aligned with institutional needs, the expected annual workload is equivalent to approximately 230 working days per year, with the ability to determine their preferred holiday and time off schedule

Location and hours

Regular hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with an occasional need to work irregular hours and/or weekends. While the University headquarters are located in Franklin, WV, the position will be hybrid or fully remote with periodic travel to headquarters. University-owned lodging is available for multi-day stays in Franklin.