Assistant Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of Students (AVC/DOS) plays a vital leadership role in shaping the student experience at the University of Mississippi. Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, the AVC/DOS serves as a highly visible and accessible advocate for students while advancing student engagement, success, and retention.

This position provides strategic leadership for a portfolio of units that directly support the student experience:
● Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct
● UMatter: Student Support and Advocacy
● Confidential Advocacy, Support, and Education
● Fraternity & Sorority Life
● Ole Miss Student Union

Key Responsibilities
● Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for assigned departments, staff, and resources in alignment with the mission and values of the Division of Student Affairs.
● Champion student advocacy, engagement, and success, promoting access to student services and resources.
● Direct and coordinate institutional response to student conduct and crisis management issues, including oversight of the student death protocol, while serving as chair of the Behavioral Intervention Team.
● Provide leadership, guidance, and support to students, families, and the campus community during times of crisis, ensuring compassionate communication and coordinated follow-up.
● Serve as a highly visible and accessible Dean of Students, advocating for the needs, voices, and experiences of students in social, academic, and campus life matters.
● Support and advise student organizations and leaders, including serving as co-advisor to the Associated Student Body, while promoting leadership development opportunities.
● Provide leadership and engagement in key institutional programs and committees, including the Chancellor’s Leadership Class, Mortar Board, Hall of Fame & Who’s Who, the Student Organizational Conduct Intervention Team (SOCIT), and serve as Co-Chair of the Fraternity and Sorority Facilities Committee.
● Lead First Amendment Support Team (FAST) supporting the rights of students and others to engage in free speech and expressive activity protected by the United States and Mississippi constitutions, including but not limited to the right to assemble, debate, demonstrate, march, and protest.
● Guide the creation and implementation of student-centered policies and programs that enhance retention, community-building, and overall student well-being.
● Lead cross-campus collaboration and partnerships with academic and administrative colleagues to strengthen the student experience.
● Oversee budgets, personnel, and assessment within the AVC/DOS portfolio, ensuring accountability and alignment with divisional priorities.
● Represent the Division of Student Affairs on institutional committees and at key university functions.

Minimum Qualifications

● Master’s degree in higher education, student affairs administration, counseling, or related field.
● At least seven years of progressive leadership experience in student affairs, student services, or higher education administration.
● Demonstrated experience in student advocacy, crisis management, and case management.
● Record of strong decision-making, communication, and collaboration skills.
● Experience supporting the success and well-being of all student populations.
● Knowledge of issues and trends in student learning and outcomes assessment, policy development, and strategic planning.
● Evidence of using data-driven analysis and decision making in shaping programs and services.
● Proven record of leading a team of colleagues to foster collaboration and engagement between the campus and the broader community.

Preferred Qualifications
● Doctoral degree in higher education administration or related field.
● Experience supervising multiple units and professional staff.
● Evidence of using data-driven decision-making to advance student success and retention.
● Record of professional engagement and leadership in student affairs at the regional or national level.

Salary range: $160,000-$180,000

The successful candidate will be:
● Student-Centered – Prioritizes student engagement, success, and services while advocating for students’ needs.
● Collaborative & Collegial – Builds partnerships across campus and the community; models diplomacy, transparency, and trust.
● Visionary & Strategic – Provides forward-thinking leadership in shaping the future of student affairs and the Dean of Students role.
● Welcoming & Ethical – Demonstrates integrity, honesty, awareness, and respect for the experiences of all students.
● Resilient & Resourceful – Manages complex challenges with compassion, sound judgment, and innovation.

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Position Details

Appointment: 12 month

Application Procedures

For full consideration, please include a resume and cover letter.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

The Division of Student Affairs fosters a community where students, faculty, staff, and partners can thrive. Guided by values of mutual respect, community, responsibility, and collaboration, the division enhances the University of Mississippi’s mission by advancing student success, expanding access and opportunity, improving well-being, and promoting learning, development, and engaged scholarship.

With more than 200 staff members, the division serves over 23,000 students on the Oxford campus through programs and services that support holistic growth—academic, personal, and professional. Our work strengthens Mississippi’s communities and prepares graduates for lifelong leadership, civic responsibility, and meaningful contribution to the wider world.

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.