Dean of the School of the Arts

Anderson University and its South Carolina School of the Arts (SCSA) invite applications for a full-time, twelve-month position as Dean. The South Carolina School of the Arts is a dynamic and innovative academic unit with a clear and intentional vision: to be a preeminent professional conservatory of the arts within a Christian university context. We seek a visionary and entrepreneurial leader who will be a driving force in this continued transformation.

SCSA serves a diverse student body with degrees and programs in the visual and performing arts through the Conservatory of Music and two departments Art & Design and Theatre & Dance. With over 350 students, SCSA maintains specialized accreditation with NASAD, NASM, and NAST, ensuring the highest standards of professional training across all programs. Anderson University is an innovative, premier comprehensive entrepreneurial university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention that accepts academically qualified students. It is a level VI institution regionally accredited by The Commission offering bachelors, master's and doctoral degree programs. The university seeks accomplished qualified candidates with a strong traditional Christian lifestyle, values, and a commitment to the integration of faith and learning and the development of traditional personal virtues.

We offer both academic and professional degree programs. We prepare students for the modern creative landscape, not just for the traditional fine arts. We believe in integrating professional training in contemporary fields like commercial music and theatrical design and production alongside our classical programs. 

The successful candidate must possess an earned doctorate or terminal degree from an accredited university in a field relevant to the arts, with credentials and professional activity that qualifies the candidate for the rank of Associate Professor or above. Significant arts leadership experience or equivalent leadership within higher education administration is required, along with demonstrated expertise in academic program management and faculty development. The candidate must demonstrate a commitment to work in a collaborative and cooperative manner in support of the mission, vision, and values of Anderson University, with a strong traditional Christian faith commitment and ability to integrate faith and learning in a scholarly, respected academic arts environment.

The university is particularly committed to developing graduates for the professions. Anderson's profile is expanding, particularly in impressive student outcomes and its reputation as one of the South's premier arts schools. SCSA is defined by a culture of rigorous, studio-intensive training, performance excellence, and professional preparedness. The Dean will not only embrace this distinction but also strengthen and further develop it, ensuring our students are prepared to enter the highest levels of their professions.

Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, as are a high level of emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills. The position requires a demonstrated ability to work effectively with talented faculty, fostering an environment where they can thrive and grow professionally. The candidate must be able to think strategically and work collaboratively with Enrollment, Marketing, and the Academic Leadership team.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in higher education leadership at the dean or associate dean level, along with a record of successful leadership in those previous roles. Experience with accreditation processes and compliance requirements is highly valued, as is a proven track record in fundraising and external relationship building.

Key Responsibilities

Academic Leadership:

• Provide visionary leadership for the continued evolution of SCSA toward a professional conservatory of the arts, with an emphasis on rigorous studio training, performance excellence, and professional preparedness.
• Lead the development of a professional, studio-intensive curriculum, field experiences, and technological resources across all three departments.
• Recruit, develop, and mentor faculty who are also accomplished practicing artists and professionals in their fields.
• Support departmental chairs in academic planning and curriculum development.
• Oversee accreditation processes and ensure compliance with institutional and external standards.

Strategic Planning and Administration:

• Active participant on the Provost’s Cabinet and the Academic Leadership Team.
• Manage SCSA’s budget and financial resources.
• Provide a vision and clear goals for SCSA’s future internally and externally.
• Lead implementation of university strategic plan initiatives within SCSA.
• Support student retention, experience, and success across all SCSA programs.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and creativity.

Enrollment and External Relations:

• Partner with the Office of Enrollment Management in admission and recruitment efforts, ultimately being accountable for SCSA's enrollment.
• Partner with the Office of Marketing & Communication in outreach initiatives for SCSA programming and events.
• Forge and strengthen partnerships with professional arts organizations and industry leaders to create career pathways and professional opportunities for students.
• Participate in fundraising for prioritized SCSA interests and strategic initiatives.
• Represent Anderson University and SCSA at professional conferences and community events.

About our Commitment to Fairness in Employment

Anderson University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, pregnancy or childbirth, veteran or military status, or any other basis on which the University is prohibited from discrimination under local, state, or federal law, in its employment or in the provision of its services, including but not limited to its programs and activities, admissions, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other University-administered programs.

As a Christian institution of higher education, Anderson University is entitled to certain religious accommodations under federal and state law, including Title IX of the Education Amendments Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. For questions or concerns contact the Office of Human Resources at [email protected].