"Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean, Candler School of Theology"

Emory University, one of the world’s leading institutions of higher education, is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean of its Candler School of Theology.

Emory University has an international reputation for world-renowned scholarship and research, outstanding teaching, and a preeminent medical center that provides students with access to and opportunity for hands-on learning experiences with top medical researchers and scholars. A member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) since 1995, the university benefits from collaboration across its nine undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools.

Candler School of Theology’s mission is to educate faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries throughout the world. Located on Emory’s Atlanta campus, Candler offers five master’s, one doctoral, and nine dual degrees. Several degrees are available in multiple formats, including in-person, hybrid, and online. Candler enrolls over 500 students and has approximately 40 full-time faculty members. For more information on Candler, please visit https://candler.emory.edu/.

The Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean will guide Candler’s full portfolio of degree programs, lead faculty and staff, and steward the school’s budget and endowment. The Dean will embody the school’s mission and maintain Candler’s reputation for top-tier scholarship, teaching, and service across the Emory campus.

This leader will bring a deep understanding of the theological education landscape and the ability to build strong partnerships across a broad set of stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students; University leadership; alumni and donors; The United Methodist Church; and other key constituencies. They will demonstrate a proven track record in financial stewardship, operational excellence, and people leadership, alongside a clear commitment to the essential role of scholarly research in tandem with spiritual formation in advancing theological education.

Initial screening of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Emory University will be assisted by Ellen Brown Landers, Meghan Ashbrock, and Sara Szynal of Heidrick & Struggles, Inc. Nominations and applications should be directed to: EmoryCandlerDean@heidrick.com