POSITION SUMMARY

Rowan University’s Ric Edelman College of Communication & Creative Arts seeks an Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives to provide critical leadership as a strategist who strengthens and grows Edelman CCCA’s academic portfolio in key areas, including esports engagement, online initiatives, and research opportunities.

The Associate Dean for Strategic Initiative will collaborate with faculty and administrators to design and implement strategic plans that align with the college’s goals, expanding academic programs and fostering interdisciplinary research. Responsibilities include driving the development of esports programming and engagement, overseeing the growth of online program offerings, and identifying research funding opportunities. As esports will serve as the lead program in the college’s online portfolio, the associate dean must have a background and significant university-level leadership experience in esports, as well as the ability to forge partnerships that elevate the college’s standing in these critical areas.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives will report directly to the dean and work closely with other members of the dean’s leadership team. The associate dean will:

Provide leadership and vision for the academic esports programs by strengthening industry partnerships, facilitating experiential learning experiences, coordinating special events, and growing online and dual enrollment initiatives. Collaborate with Rowan’s Director of Esports and with the Nerd Street Localhost located on Rowan Blvd. to further an inclusive esports environment at Rowan University. Create and oversee the implementation of a strategic plan for growing online learning, ensuring alignment with the college’s mission and goals. Build partnerships with other institutions, corporations, and professional organizations to enhance the reach and impact of the college’s online programs. Collaborate with other colleges in the university to expand strategic, multi-disciplinary partnerships, which may include research opportunities. Foster partnerships with industry, government agencies, and other institutions to enhance research opportunities and resources.

Additionally, as appropriate, the associate dean will:

Teach one course within the esports major to maintain a presence in the program. Assist with student recruitment and retention. Externally promote Edelman CCCA’s programs, initiatives, and student accomplishments to the community and state. Collaborate in planning of conferences and events, reunions and other programs to enhance connections of alumni and friends with the university and Edelman CCCA. Actively participate on civic and charitable boards and with organizations, advancing the visibility of Edelman CCCA.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The associate dean must have:

A Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant area A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity and a record of working with diverse students, faculty, and staff At least three years of full-time leadership experience at the collegiate level  At least three years full-time teaching experience at the collegiate level, both online and face-to-face A proven research agenda

In addition, the associate dean will demonstrate the following skills and characteristics:

Documented leadership skills Successful experience with higher education organizations Successful leadership of programs in higher education settings Experience planning community events and increasing student engagement Significant experience teaching in asynchronous environments Strong written, oral, public speaking and listening communication skills Strong planning and organizational skills, including ability to manage multiple relationships in a highly matrixed organization Desire and ability to enact change, strong task orientation and high level of energy Demonstrated ability to work effectively with colleagues, senior university leadership and various outside and internal constituents Affinity with the overall mission of Rowan University and Edelman CCCA

Start Date: flexible

Application Deadline: Applications will accepted until February 10, 2025

NOTE

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the US, and the university will not sponsor an applicant for a work visa for this position.