"Dean of the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and the School of Theatre"

Dean of the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and the School of Theatre

Oklahoma City University (OCU)—a private, non-profit university established in 1904 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church—invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its next Dean. The University seeks an experienced, creative, and talented academic leader with a commitment to advancing programs of music and theatre education.

Reporting to the next Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will be named by December 2025, the Dean will provide academic and administrative leadership for both the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and the School of Theatre. This includes advancing their missions through strategic planning, budget oversight, program development, ensuring excellence in curriculum design, scholarly activity, instructional delivery, assessment, and outcomes. The Dean will cultivate faculty development and student success, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure compliance with accreditation standards.

In partnership with University leadership and external stakeholders, the Dean will foster innovation in arts education, lead fundraising and community engagement efforts, and maintain a visible presence at performances and campus events.

The next Dean is expected to begin in 2026. The Wanda L. Bass School of Music and the School of Theatre are nationally recognized for their rigorous training, distinguished faculty, and legacy of excellence in music and performance. They collaborate with the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment to blend conservatory-level training with a liberal arts foundation.

The School of Music has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1944 and is recognized as an All-Steinway School, Yamaha Institution of Excellence, the nation’s first Conn-Selmer School, and an Apple Digital Campus. The School of Theatre offers programs grounded in putting theory into practice, with mentorship, small class sizes, and strong professional connections.

Required Qualifications

• Degree: A terminal degree in a discipline related to music or theatre (e.g., D.M.A., Ph.D., M.F.A.); or a baccalaureate degree and exceptional professional experience; or a Master’s degree in Arts Administration/Management and significant related experience.
• Academic/Professional Achievement: A distinguished record appropriate for a faculty appointment with tenure.
• Fundraising Experience: A proven record of successful fundraising.
• Inclusive Excellence: A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the arts.

Oklahoma City University is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in education and employment.

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