Dean of Students

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Vice President of Student Affairs, The Dean of Students is responsible for the overall direction and management of Student Affairs. This includes day-to-day administrative and managerial leadership of Residence Life and Housing, Campus life, Judicial Affairs, Counseling and Health Services with the goal of building and maintaining a vibrant student life program that develops students as leaders and effective community members. Programs and initiatives within the scope of responsibilities of the Dean of Students are integral to the retention and success of Shaw students. The position is accountable for ensuring internal/external client satisfaction through effective personal management of subordinate personnel, interpersonal relationships, projects, materials, budgetary costs, and continuous quality improvement.

Essential Job Functions:

• Ensures the creation and maintenance of a supportive student living/learning environment dedicated to the needs of a diverse student population:


• Effectively applies knowledge and understanding of student programs as they relate to the development of effective strategic objectives to create appropriate outcomes-based assessment.


• Effectively manages the day-to-day administration, interpretation, and enforcement of the University student code of conduct rules and regulations.


• Creates and maintains effective programs and communications with parents.


• Develops, implements, and administers effective policies and procedures for Student Affairs.


• Maintains up-to-date knowledge and ensures compliance with all University policies and procedures


• Build support for the strategic vision through the articulation of the student affairs philosophy to students, faculty, staff, and external agencies.


• Serves as an effective liaison with community leaders, including local police and community service organizations.


• Advises the Vice President of Student Affairs/Administration on major developments or challenges associated with the operation of Student Affairs.


• Provides status updates regarding retention issues.


• Identifies needed changes in policies, procedures, and systems of the University and provides recommendations for effective solutions.


• As a member of the University's management team visibly supports and actively participates in carrying out the University's mission, goals, and objectives, inside and outside of assigned work unit.


• Ensures cross-departmental team cohesiveness and efficiency.


• Works to ensure that positive relations are maintained throughout the University and community.


• Effectively resolves inter-personal and/or transactional issues and concerns.


• Promotes team building through participation and/or leadership at meetings or on committees, including service on the Student Affairs committee of the Board of Trustees.


• Ensures effective and appropriate overall communication and dissemination of information.


• Consistently exhibits sound judgment in exercising leadership responsibilities.


• Participates in/attends major functions of the University, including graduation, convocation, and homecoming events.


• Always demonstrates a professional behavior and appearance, and at all University-related events.


• Maintains strict confidentiality in all matters pertaining to personnel and operational management matters.


• Accurately estimate Residence Life and Housing, Judicial Affairs, Health Services and Campus Life needs and requirements to correlate supporting services.


• Develops and makes recommendations for the Student Affairs budgets.


• Ensures the efficient allocation and economical utilization of University resources.


• Authorizes work unit expenditures in accordance with budget and financial guidelines.


• Monitors the Student Affairs budgets to ensure timely revisions and identification of problems.


• Pursues self-study and continuing education in field of expertise.


• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Director - Residence Life

Director - Judicial Services

Director - Counseling center

Nurse (full-time)

Administrative Assistant

Minimum Job Qualifications 

Education and/or Experience

• Master's degree required; PhD preferred.


• Seven years related professional experience in student affairs administration in higher education.


• Three years of supervisory/management experience, preferably in higher education.


• Reputation of promoting high ethical standards among students and staff.


• OR equivalent combination of training and experience.

Five Specific Competencies

Other Competencies (skills, abilities, behavior)

Must have a philosophy that is consistent with the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of the organization.  Vision, commitment, and experience in achieving goals and pursuing excellence is critical.  Strong oral and written presentation skills. Ability to work well independently and as a member of a team.  Excellence in organization, decision-making, problem-solving and creating a collaborative environment. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Must be able to read, write and speak fluently in English.

Physical Demands

Ability to sit or stand for up to 8 hours/day. Some lifting (up to 25 pounds occasionally), bending, and carrying. The employee is regularly required to talk and hear, and to use hands and fingers to handle or feel.