Stephen F. Austin State University
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Stephen F. Austin State University welcomes applications and nominations for the position of Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will serve as the chief academic officer of the University.
Stephen F. Austin State University, the newest member of The University of Texas System, began a century ago as a teachers’ college in Texas’ oldest town, Nacogdoches. Today, it has grown into a regional institution comprising six colleges – business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, liberal and applied arts, and sciences and mathematics. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, SFA provides the academic breadth of a comprehensive university with the personalized attention of a liberal arts college. The University offers more than 80 bachelor’s degree programs, more than 40 master’s degrees, and four doctoral degrees, covering more than 120 areas of study.
Nestled in a pine tree sanctuary, the main campus encompasses 421 acres that include 36 academic facilities, nine residence halls, and 68 acres of recreational trails that wind through six gardens. With the inclusion of its off-campus Todd Agricultural Research Center, DeWitt School of Nursing Complex, and aviation program hangars, SFA is spread across 1,210 acres of land in Nacogdoches County. Over 41% of undergraduate students are first generation – being the first in their families to achieve four-year college educations.
This is an executive position responsible for serving as the chief academic officer of the University, advocating for academic programs and faculty. The Provost provides academic and administrative leadership to achieve the highest standards of excellence in teaching, scholarship, creative activity, and public and professional service. The Provost is responsible for the formulation and implementation of all academic plans, policies, priorities, and innovation. The Provost functions as a principal advisor to the President, chief administrative officer in the President’s absence, and may be called upon by the President to represent the University administration at key functions. The Provost reports to the President and serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet. The Provost works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
An earned terminal degree from an accredited institution is required. A distinguished record of teaching, research/scholarly/creative accomplishments, and service that qualify for rank of professor with tenure in one of the University’s colleges is required. A progressive history of leadership responsibilities in higher education appropriate to this role is required, with leadership of a University college or school with direct supervisory experience for academic departments and units preferred. Demonstrated experience leading and managing change within a fast-paced and dynamic environment is required. Leadership experience in institutional strategic planning, making strategic decisions, and leading others toward strategic decisions is required. Experience managing a complex budget, integrating budget decisions and strategic planning, and ensuring institutional efficiency is required. Experience with recruiting, developing, and retaining high-quality faculty, as well as evaluation of promotion and tenure at the college or school level, is required. Experience with recruitment and retention of diverse student populations is required. Experience in leading ongoing efforts to assure institutional effectiveness and meet accreditation standards is required.
More information, including full lists of responsibilities and qualifications, can be found in the institutional profile at https://www.academicsearch.org/open-searches-public/entry/20545/?search=20545.
How to Apply
Applications should consist of a substantial letter of interest, a CV, and a list of five professional references with full contact information and a note indicating the nature of your working relationship with each. No references will be contacted without the explicit permission of the candidate. Applications, nominations, and expressions of interest can be submitted electronically, and in confidence, to:
The position is open until filled but only applications received by Friday, February 7, 2025, can be assured full consideration. The University is being assisted by Academic Search. Confidential discussions about this opportunity may be arranged by contacting consultants Ann Hasselmo at Ann.Hasselmo@academicsearch.org and Chris Butler at Chris.Butler@academicsearch.org. Further information about Stephen F. Austin State University is available at https://www.sfasu.edu/.
Stephen F. Austin State University, an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and Educator, is committed to excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, creed, color, age, national origin, religion or physical or mental disability as required by law. If, because of an impairment or disability, you need accommodation during any part of the employment process, please contact Human Resources at 936-468-2304.
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