"Dean of Campus Life and Vice President for Student Engagement"

Dean of Campus Life and Vice President for Student Engagement

Emory University, a private, research institution in Atlanta, GA, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of dean of campus life and vice president for student engagement. This is an on-site leadership role.

Emory University is a leading research institution, internationally recognized for its outstanding liberal arts colleges, graduate and professional schools, and one of the nation's most comprehensive academic health care systems. With approximately 16,000 students enrolled across undergraduate and graduate programs on its two campuses, Emory fosters a vibrant and intellectually engaged academic community. The university integrates rigorous liberal arts education, top-tier professional training, and expansive research opportunities in the heart of a dynamic urban setting.

Reporting to the provost, the dean of campus life and vice president for student engagement (DOCL/VP) will provide strategic and visionary leadership for the university's campus life division, and work closely with the president, deans, and other senior university leaders to advance the institutional priority of enhancing the student experience by fully integrating the work of campus life and the academic mission of the university. The DOCL/VP provides leadership for athletics and recreation; belonging and community; community standards and student support; health, wellbeing, access and prevention; residential student life; student centers and engagement; campus life business operations; and communication and strategic initiatives. The division of campus life has an annual budget of $71 million and a team of 293 dedicated professionals.

Qualifications

An advanced degree and significant senior leadership experience in campus life within a complex higher education institution, preferably supporting both undergraduate and graduate students, are required. An earned doctorate is strongly preferred.

The ideal candidate will bring a demonstrated history of working with academic units and faculty to integrate academic and campus life missions; proven experience in developing leaders and supervising teams within complex settings, demonstrating a strong ability to inspire and guide others effectively; strong management skills, including budget development and implementation, and strategic planning; and the ability to work respectfully, creatively, and collaboratively in highly complex and challenging environments.

Successful candidates will thrive in the dynamic setting of a highly selective, urban university, engaging meaningfully with a culturally diverse and international student population that is enterprising and energetic. Well-honed communication skills, including listening, writing, and speaking effectively in both small and large groups, are essential. Candidates should resonate deeply with the mission and values of Emory University.

Application and Nomination

Emory University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin March 4, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/dean-of-campus-life-and-vice-president-for-student-engagement/

• Contact Mark Hall at mah@spelmanjohnson.com or Heather Larabee hjl@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.
• 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 Emory College website at www.emory.edu