Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life

Davidson College, a small private liberal arts college in Davidson, North Carolina, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its next assistant dean of students and director of residence life. This is an on-site leadership role.

Established in 1837 by Presbyterians of North Carolina, Davidson is a liberal arts college with a rich history and heritage. The college works to preserve the traditions that make the Davidson experience unique, while evolving to meet the needs of learners in an interconnected and rapidly changing world. Currently, 95 percent of the 1,927 enrolled students live on campus. Davidson College is located in the town of Davidson, North Carolina, approximately 20 minutes north of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Reporting to the associate dean of students, the assistant dean of students and director of residence life is responsible for all aspects of the residence life office (RLO), which oversees approximately 1,800 residential students across 19 residential facilities. The assistant dean of students and director of residence life is responsible for operations and facilities management, selection and training of professional and student employees, and the intentional ways educational and social aspects impact a thriving residential and academic experience at Davidson College.

The assistant dean of students and director of residence life directly supervises five professional staff members, and indirectly supervises three professional staff members and approximately 80 paraprofessional staff. They manage a budget of $8 million, and serve as a critical partner and collaborator across many units at Davidson.

For salary information please contact Julie Leos at [email protected].

Qualifications
A master's degree in student personnel, higher education, counseling, or related degree, and at least five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in residence life or housing on a college campus. Candidates with an advanced understanding of student learning and development in a residential setting will be given priority. Experience as a student or professional in a small liberal arts college or university environment is preferred.

Additional qualifications of the successful candidate:

• A proven record of substantial budget and facilities experience.

• The ability to lead, supervise, and guide a team of professionals to higher standards and towards a clear vision.

• Possesses a broad commitment to diversity and social justice.

• Has the ability to lead and contribute within a work environment that is inclusive and celebratory.

• Possesses strong organizational and communication skills to lead a residence life team and to communicate with external constituents.

• Willingness to work with a team and the ability to accept various levels of responsibilities incumbent upon leaders in a small school setting.

• Leads creatively with a desire to be incorporated into the Davidson College community, its traditions, and overall vision.

• Proven ability to build successful working relationships with colleagues across campus to serve students well.

• Ability to build solid relationships and camaraderie with student leaders, residents, and staff.

• Proven ability to communicate with and support faculty and staff in a highly selective liberal arts atmosphere.

• Ability to work well under high pressure and stressful situations.

• Proven aptitude in using data to anticipate residential student trends.

• Deep experience responding to and managing student crises in an on-call duty rotation or as a member of a behavioral intervention team.

History of the Position

Walter Snipes, Davidson’s current assistant dean of students and director of residence life, has served the college in various roles over the years. Snipes will depart the institution for a promotional opportunity in mid-September 2024. In the interim, the residence life office will be led by the newly appointed associate dean of students until the new assistant dean of students and director of residence life is hired.

Application and Nomination
Davidson College has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin October 22, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://apptrkr.com/5669973.

• Contact Julie Leos at [email protected] for confidential inquiries and nominations.

• Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email [email protected].

Visit the Davidson College website at www.davidson.edu

Davidson College fosters a positive environment in which all employees and students enjoy a work and academic environment free from illegal discrimination or harassment. Our policy is to admit qualified students and administer all educational, athletic, financial, and employment activities without discrimination based on race, color, gender, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law unless allowed by law and deemed necessary to the administration of the college's educational programs or operations.