"Dean, School of Nursing"

Job Description Summary

Samuel Merritt University invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the College of Nursing (CON). The Dean serves as the chief academic and administrative officer of the College, providing visionary leadership to advance SMU’s mission through excellence in teaching, research, clinical practice, and service.

The Dean oversees all academic programs within the College of Nursing, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The successful candidate will champion innovation in nursing education and scholarship, ensure high standards of academic quality, and foster a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion among faculty, staff, and students.

The Dean reports to the Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs/Provost and serves as a member of the Academic Council, Supervisors and Managers Committee, and as ex officio on relevant university and college committees and task forces.

Minimum Qualifications

• Earned doctorate in nursing or a related field (PhD, DNP, or equivalent).
• Distinguished record of teaching, scholarship, and service commensurate with appointment at the rank of Associate or Full Professor.
• Demonstrated success in academic leadership (e.g., Dean, Associate/Assistant Dean, Program Director, or Chair) with evidence of effective management, fiscal oversight, and faculty advocacy.
• Visionary leadership is characterized by collaboration, transparency, and commitment to shared governance.
• Proven ability to foster inclusive excellence, diversity, and equity within an academic or healthcare setting.
• Understanding nursing education, practice, and research within today’s complex healthcare environment.
• Experience in curriculum innovation, accreditation processes, and interprofessional education.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills; ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to SMU’s mission and values, academic freedom, and professional ethics.
• Eligibility for licensure as a Registered Nurse in California.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to secure external funding and partnerships.
• Record of success building community and clinical collaborations.
• Experience leading in an institution recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and service.
• Ability to navigate change with creativity and resilience.

Employee Status: Regular

Exemption Status: United States of America (Exempt)

Time Type: Full time

Pay Range: $240k to $280k

Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills.