Dean

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) seeks an experienced, visionary, and mission-driven leader to serve as the next Dean of the School of Public Affairs (SPA or the School). SPA is dedicated to producing knowledge and cultivating leadership that transforms complex policy challenges into opportunities for positive change. The next SPA Dean will build on the strengths of its faculty, staff, students, and alumni to further elevate the School’s profile and impact while maintaining its commitment to advancing the principles of democracy, equity, and justice to improve societal well-being.

SPA is the top public affairs school in Colorado and amongst the best in the nation; its graduate program ranked 20th out of 266 programs nationwide. Its downtown Denver location provides extraordinary access to a diverse urban environment where policy becomes practice, and the faculty’s expertise makes SPA a go-to resource for state and national policy makers, and for students who have a vision for a better future. SPA offers undergraduate and graduate programs in criminal justice and public affairs, in addition to leadership development programs for directors and managers in all sectors. Faculty conduct research​ on crucial issues affecting the whole nation, such as criminal justice, education reform, energy policy, health policy, urban sustainability, state and local public services, collaborative governance, and water policy.

Reporting to the provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, the Dean of the School of Public Affairs serves as the chief academic officer of the School with full responsibility for its academic programs and curricula, budget, community outreach and engagement, and development activities. Additionally, the Dean is expected to provide bold and collaborative leadership to position the School for long-term success; advance SPA’s excellence in teaching, scholarship, policy engagement, and public service; champion a student-centered culture that promotes access, success, belonging, and preparation for public leadership; cultivate relationships that further SPA’s reputation, impact, and resource base; and lead with transparency, collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to shared governance.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $250,000-$260,000. The salary of the person selected for this role will be determined by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

CU Denver has engaged Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, for this recruitment effort. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the search process is complete. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent below.

Jeff Kessner is leading this search with Janette Martinez and Jenny Rubin.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.