Vice Provost for International Affairs

The University of Minnesota (University)—one of the most prestigious comprehensive, public land-grant research universities in the nation—seeks a visionary, collaborative, and entrepreneurial leader to serve as its next Vice Provost for International Affairs (VPIA). As the VPIA and Senior International Officer (SIO), this position drives the University’s global strategy and advances the global dimensions of teaching, research, and engagement across all campuses of the University of Minnesota.

The University of Minnesota has a long and distinguished history of global engagement and is a recognized innovator and leader in the field of international education. International students first enrolled in 1874, and alumni have gone on to serve as prime ministers, ambassadors, and leaders within academia and across industries. The pioneering and nationally recognized Minnesota Model of study- abroad curriculum integration has led to more than 30% of undergraduate students having an experience abroad before they graduate. The University was among the first in the country to create positions dedicated to internationalizing the curriculum; international health, safety, and compliance; and mental health in study abroad.
 
The VPIA provides leadership and administrative oversight to the units within the Global Programs and Strategy Alliance (GPS), including the largest units—International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and the Learning Abroad Center (LAC). With approximately 115 staff, these units play a critical role in driving the University's global strategy and connecting faculty, staff, and students with the resources and expertise needed for personal and professional success. The VPIA reports to Executive Vice President and Provost Gretchen Ritter, serving on the provost’s senior leadership team and convening the University’s International Programs Council (IPC). The VPIA will consult with the vice provosts on educational and enrollment matters, and with the vice president for research and innovation on fostering international research partnerships. 

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in enhancing the University’s reputation as a world-class research and education institution and a destination of choice for international scholars, faculty, and students. The VPIA will cultivate national and international partnerships, expand research and education collaborations, support international student recruitment and alumni engagement, and promote a welcoming, inclusive, and globally diverse campus culture. The VPIA will guide a comprehensive internationalization strategy for the University; foster greater collaboration and enhance operational efficiency across units on campus; develop, diversify, and strengthen programming, partnerships, and funding streams to promote global engagement in educational and research activities, and promote a welcoming, inclusive, and globally diverse campus culture for staff, students, and faculty.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent below. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Sean Farrell is leading this search with Silvia Cheng and Drew Chang.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the University.