Southern Connecticut State University, a comprehensive public university in New Haven, Connecticut, is launching a national search for its Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (VPDEI). Southern seeks an experienced DEI leader with a keen desire to serve a diverse and complex institution. The new VPDEI will have the opportunity to work with Dr. Dwayne Smith, Southern’s dynamic interim president, a strong senior leadership team, an exceptional faculty, a dedicated staff, and impressive students in ensuring the University’s position as a vibrant institution offering a 21st-century education of excellence.
A partially residential university, Southern currently enrolls approximately 9,377 students, 7,252 of whom are full- and part-time undergraduates and 2,125 of whom are full- and part-time graduate students. The heart and soul of Southern is its mission, the cornerstones of which are academic excellence, access, social justice, and service for the public good. Southern is a truly student-centered campus that provides students with an educational experience equal to what they would find at more prestigious institutions. The cornerstones of Southern’s mission form a unity: providing an excellent education available to all who can benefit from it at an affordable price is Southern’s primary contribution to social justice.
The Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion reports to the President and is a member of the Cabinet. The Vice President will provide leadership, guidance, and supervision to the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which is comprised of seven full-time staff. Additionally, the VPDEI position provides guidance to faculty fellows and part-time staff assigned to targeted initiatives and projects to support the university goals and strategic plan.
The VPDEI plays a major leadership role in continuing to advance Southern’s goal of becoming known as a state and national leader in social justice in the national higher education landscape. This position will serve as Southern’s main thought leader and strategist, guiding efforts to actualize what it means to be a social justice community to both internal and external stakeholders; to be intentionally mindful about everything Southern does while on a constant learning journey; and to be committed to educating and being a resource for the internal and external community to prepare everyone to live and learn in a diverse global community.
A complete leadership profile and additional information about the University may be found here https://www.agbsearch.com/searches/vice-president-for-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-southern-connecticut-state-university
APPLICATION PROCESS
For full consideration, applications should be received by November 19, 2024.
Candidates should provide the following:
- Letter of interest addressing the experience and qualifications identified in the profile.
- A curriculum vitae/resume.
- Five professional references with email addresses and phone numbers provided (references will not be contacted without prior permission from the applicant).
Applications should be in PDF format and submitted through the AGB Search portal at SCSU – VP for DEI Application Portal.
Please direct any nominations, expressions of interest, or questions regarding the application process to SCSU-VPDEI@agbsearch.com or to the AGB Search team:
Kim Bobby, EdD
Principal
Kim.bobby@agbsearch.com
(253) 861-7738
Wayne Wormley, Ph.D.
Executive Search Consultant
wayne.wormley@agbsearch.com
(215) 432-7913
Southern Connecticut State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The University seeks to enhance the diversity of its faculty and staff. People of color, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
