Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Professional Advancement (CoPA), an innovative unit dedicated to expanding access to higher education for working adults, non-traditional learners, and professionals seeking to advance their careers.
Mercer University is one of America’s oldest and most distinctive institutions of higher learning, offering rigorous programs that span the undergraduate liberal arts and sciences to doctoral-level degrees. Founded by early 19th-century Baptists, Mercer—while no longer formally denominationally affiliated—remains committed to an educational environment that embraces the historic Baptist principles of intellectual and religious freedom. With about 9,000 students enrolled in 12 schools and colleges, on major campuses in Macon and Atlanta, medical school campuses in Macon, Savannah, Columbus, Valdosta, and Carrollton, and at regional academic centers in Henry and Douglas counties, Mercer is ranked among the top tier and best values of national research universities by U.S. News & World Report.
The College of Professional Advancement represents one of Mercer’s most distinctive academic units, designed specifically to serve adult learners, working professionals, and students whose educational journeys do not follow a traditional path. The College balances the study of liberal arts with a career-focused education to help students achieve their professional goals. As of 2026, there are 1,200 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, professional, and workforce development certificate programs.
Reporting to the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, the Dean is responsible for the overall academic quality, strategic direction, financial health, and operational effectiveness of the College of Professional Advancement. They will be a seasoned administrator who combines deep respect for the mission of professional and continuing education with the entrepreneurial drive to grow programs, forge community and industry partnerships, and position the College as a regional and national leader in adult learning. They understand the unique needs of non-traditional students, including the importance of flexible delivery, applied curriculum, and meaningful credentialing, and they translate that understanding into strategic program development and student success.
The next Dean will have a terminal degree from an accredited institution in a field relevant to the College's academic portfolio and the academic credentials sufficient for the appointment as a tenured full professor within one of the College’s departments. In addition, they will possess significant progressive leadership experience in higher education, with demonstrated responsibility for academic programs, innovation, personnel, and budget.
The search committee will begin accepting and reviewing applications immediately and through Fall 2026. Requested application materials include a letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and a curriculum vitae/resumé. Although applications will be accepted until a Dean is selected, for best consideration, all candidates should submit their materials as soon as possible. All materials will be received in confidence. DSG Global has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Dr. Thomas Fitch, Managing Director, and Ms. Amanda Bennett, Managing Associate, who can be contacted at: MercerDeanProfessionalAdvancement@dsgco.com
For a full position leadership profile, please click here: https://dsgco.com/search/23182-mercer-dean-professional-advancement
To express interest in this role, please submit materials directly to the following: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/23182
This is a full-time position that will be based on-site in either Atlanta or Macon, Georgia. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.
EEO/Veteran/Disability