Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management

Washburn University*Transform Enrollment. Empower Access. Inspire the Future.*

Washburn University, a thriving, open-access public institution with a rich history of serving students across a spectrum of programs and credentials, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the role of Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management (VPSEM). This senior executive position offers a transformational leader the opportunity to shape the future of enrollment at a university boldly advancing a student-centered, mission-driven vision.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Washburn is enjoying record-breaking momentum in enrollment and institutional reputation. With a 160-year history, 7,500 students, over 200 academic programs, and strong regional impact, Washburn is committed to expanding access, enhancing learner success, and building powerful academic and community partnerships. The University is proudly home to:

• Record enrollment growth over the past two years
• A nationally recognized Washburn Tech for technical education
• One of only two law schools in Kansas
• A newly launched strategic plan, Thriving Together, focused on bold innovation
• A new integrated health sciences facility and expanding infrastructure to meet workforce needs
• Designation as a “Great College to Work For®” in 2024

Leading this dynamic environment is President JuliAnn Mazachek**,** a visionary and inclusive leader known for courageous innovation, student-first philosophy, and a commitment to data-informed, collaborative leadership. The VPSEM will report directly to President Mazachek and serve as a key member of her senior leadership cabinet.

THE ROLE

The Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management will serve as the university’s chief enrollment officer, responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive, data-driven strategy that supports the full student journey—from recruitment to retention—across Washburn University **and** Washburn Tech.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead enrollment planning, forecasting, recruitment, and financial aid optimization across campuses
• Oversee undergraduate, international, and high school enrollment, admissions, financial services, and enrollment analytics
• Support graduate and law enrollment efforts through collaborative partnerships with academic deans
• Serve as a cross-functional strategist—partnering with academic affairs, student life, marketing, finance, and IT
• Expand student pipelines through innovative initiatives including dual enrollment, workforce partnerships, adult and non-traditional pathways
• Advance equity, access, and student success through strategic aid packaging and mission-aligned policies
• Champion the use of CRM, SIS, digital marketing, AI tools, and emerging technologies to drive recruitment and retention

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Master’s degree in higher education administration, business, marketing, or a related field
• At least 7 years of demonstrated leadership success as an innovator in enrollment management

Preferred:

• Doctorate in higher education, business, or related field
• Experience across a range of student populations, including first-generation, transfer, international, and adult learners

The Ideal Candidate Will Demonstrate:

• A bold and creative approach to enrollment growth and student success
• Expertise in enrollment analytics, forecasting, and financial aid modeling
• Proven ability to build effective cross-divisional and community partnerships
• A servant-leadership mindset that empowers teams and advances institutional mission
• Familiarity with the evolving regulatory and demographic landscape impacting higher education

WHY WASHBURN?

This is a unique opportunity to serve at a forward-looking university that is financially sound**,** independently governed, and deeply committed to access and affordability. With a robust $260M endowment, low student-faculty ratios, and nationally recognized student success programming, Washburn is well-positioned to thrive amid disruption and opportunity in higher education.

As VPSEM, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Shape strategy with direct access to the president
• Lead from strength—amid historic enrollment gains and community momentum
• Drive innovative, analytics-driven enrollment practices with campus-wide support
• Champion Washburn’s mission to serve diverse student populations and expand opportunity in the region

LIVING IN TOPEKA

Located in the heart of the state,Topeka, Kansas offers a vibrant and affordable lifestyle with access to nature, culture, arts, and family-friendly attractions. As the state capital, Topeka is home to a thriving business community, a flourishing arts and culinary scene, and strong K-12 and healthcare systems. With outdoor recreation, history, and innovation all within reach, it’s no wonder Washburn alumni and faculty proudly call Topeka home.

APPLICATIONS & NOMINATIONS

Washburn University is partnering with Anthem Executive to lead this national search. To ensure full consideration, please submit your materials at your earliest opportunity.

Submit nominations and application materials (a letter of interest and a CV) in confidence to:

WUVPSEM@AnthemExecutive.com

Washburn University is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment. The University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or marital/parental status.