The search for the next Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
Washburn University seeks a learner-centered, collaborative, and innovative leader to join its campus and serve its learners and community as its next Dean of the Washburn University College of Arts and Sciences. Alongside academic deans of the University’s schools, the College Dean reports to Washburn's Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and serves as a senior leader at the institution.
The Dean provides academic, intellectual, strategic, and administrative leadership for the Washburn University College of Arts and Sciences and is responsible for its effective administration. The Dean works with key stakeholders, both inside and outside of the Washburn University College of Arts and Sciences, to advocate for the College’s mission of providing meaningful coursework and enriching experiences using innovative and individualized teaching approaches in a connected and collaborative environment.
Role of the Dean
The Dean facilitates an environment that supports and promotes the faculty's commitment to learning and engagement. The Dean champions excellence in teaching, faculty scholarship and service to the university and the community. The Dean, in partnership with the faculty, is responsible for academic program evaluation and review; accreditation of select programs; faculty recruitment and development; evaluation of faculty members and staff; and learner relations.
The Dean is responsible, in cooperation with the Provost, for academic and administrative planning; budgeting; administration and implementation of school and university policies; external relations; and fundraising in partnership with the University Foundation. The Dean works collaboratively with the administration, and with other deans and leaders to set and accomplish strategic goals for the Washburn University College of Arts and Sciences in alignment with Washburn's academic identity and its strategic framework and process.
The incoming Dean will have the opportunity to build on the excellence within the College of Arts and Sciences. Enhancing access and opportunity for learners, faculty, and staff will be essential. Developing programs to best serve the region and the state will also be crucial to the success of the new Dean.
Timeline
The Search Committee invites letters of interest and nominations to be submitted directly to the search firm, Anthem Executive. Correspondence should include a curriculum vitae and a letter of interest describing relevant experience and interest in the position. Submit materials to Michael Ballew, Scott Watson, JR Wheless, or Florene Stawowy at: WUDeanCAS@anthemexecutive.com
While applications and nominations may be accepted until the position is filled, interested parties are strongly encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible to assure consideration. The deadline for applications is April 5, 2024; however, Anthem and Washburn reserve the right to end or extend the application and nomination process following this date. Expressing interest is the first step in receiving consideration and does not make one an applicant for the position.
- Bob Beatty (Chair) – Professor and Chair of Political Science
- Takrima Sadikot – Professor of Biology
- Joseph Desota – Assistant Professor of Music
- Kelly Thor – Chair of the Art Department
- Julie Boydston – Assistant Professor of Psychology
- Kerry Wynn – Professor of History and Director of the Honors Program
- Eric Grospitch – Vice President for Student Life
- Tevin Asamoah – Washburn Student Government Association Vice President; Majoring in Biology & Philosophy
- Park Lockwood – Professor of Kinesiology
- Tracy Routsong – Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences
- Zach Frank – Dean, School of Applied Studies
- Nan Sun – Chair of Computer Information Sciences
- Melanie Burdick – Chair of English Department
140 Full-time faculty
Offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees, the College includes the Mulvane Art Museum and 17 academic departments representing disciplines in the creative and performing arts, mathematics and natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Virtual tour
53% of total learner credit hours
General education requirements mean all learners, regardless of major, interact with the College during their time as a Washburn undergraduate. The College of Arts and Sciences implemented a math pathways program that led to a significant improvement in first-time pass rates for learners. Areas of study
An open access institution
As a public, municipal, open-access institution, Washburn is proud to offer an affordable, quality education that helps all types of students.
Topeka: A city on the move
Wherever you look in Topeka, from downtown renovation and company expansions to the hub of state government, this is a city on the move! With a population of more than 127,000 people, Topeka provides a long list of entertainment and activities that you might find in larger cities, while offering a friendly and inclusive culture that makes everyone feel welcome. It is the best of both worlds!
