Commandant of Cadets

Mary Baldwin University is currently seeking candidates for the position of Commandant of Cadets, Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position.

Position Description

The Commandant is responsible for the overall direction and guidance of the VWIL program, Corps of Cadets, ROTC cadets, and Marching Band. The Commandant maintains an environment in which students can balance full participation in the Corps with meaningful engagement within the university, through athletics, student government, civic engagement, and other activities. Within a 40-hour week, weekend/evening hours are expected to support cadet activities. The Commandant supervises the VWIL staff, work study cadets, and band director.

Commandant’s Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinating with Admissions for on-campus visit days, orientations, high school visits
• Interfacing with Association of Military Colleges and Schools, Staunton Military Academy Alumni Foundation, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and service ROTC commanders
• Overseeing the budget process including legislative relations, writing budget language, annual report to General Assembly, meeting with representatives and military liaisons
• Connecting with VWIL Alumni Chapter with progress of the VWIL program and events, integrate alumni into recruitment efforts, maintain alumni database through MBU Alumni Office
• Representing VWIL at university meetings and functions

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Must have a master’s degree
• Served successfully in the military grade of O-5 or higher, or E-7 or higher
• Present a high-level military appearance
• Maintain a level of physical conditioning to participate with cadets during physical training
• Supervisor experience
• Administrative/managerial/logistic experience
• Experience in leadership development for young adults in military & civilian settings
• High standards of performance, impeccable judgment, and character beyond reproach
• Demonstrated commitment to excellence
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, strong management, organizational skills

Preferences

• Recent military experience (last 5 years)
• Instructor experience
• Training in a higher education environment
• Thorough knowledge of protocol in both military and civilian settings
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as required

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three references to Commandant Search Committee at vwil@marybaldwin.edu, or via U.S. mail to P.O. Box 1500, Staunton, VA 24402. Applications should be submitted by May 30th, 2026.