Associate Vice President - Blanding

Utah State University•Blanding, UT

16h

About The Position

Overview Utah State University invites nominations and applications for the position of Associate Vice President (AVP) of Utah State University Blanding. Located in Blanding, Utah, USU Blanding is a residential campus within the statewide system of Utah State University, offering certificate, associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The Associate Vice President reports to the Deputy Vice President for Statewide Residential Campuses and serves on the Statewide Campus Administrative Council. This senior leadership role is responsible for advancing enrollment growth, strengthening workforce alignment, and deepening partnerships across San Juan County and the broader Four Corners region. USU Blanding plays a critical role in expanding educational access in rural Utah. The next AVP will lead with a clear focus on: Sustainable enrollment growth and student retention Academic programming aligned with regional workforce and economic priorities Strong collaboration with school districts, local and Tribal governments, community leaders, and industry partners The successful candidate will bring executive leadership experience and the ability to guide a comprehensive residential campus in a complex and evolving environment. This individual must understand how to build trust in rural communities, strengthen regional pipelines, and align academic offerings with real opportunity. The AVP will represent the campus effectively within the university system while advocating for the distinctive needs of USU Blanding. The Associate Vice President will: Develop and execute a strategic plan focused on enrollment, access, and regional impact Strengthen recruitment, concurrent enrollment, and transfer pathways Expand workforce certificates, applied programs, and community-based learning opportunities Advance teaching, research, and student-centered support services Cultivate alumni, donor, and legislative relationships Secure external funding and philanthropic support Foster a campus culture grounded in collaboration, accountability, and student success Strong communication skills, sound fiscal leadership, and the ability to build durable partnerships are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate cultural awareness, experience working with Native American communities, and a deep commitment to the land-grant mission of Utah State University. The position is available June 1, 2026, or at a mutually agreed-upon date. Review of applications will begin March 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

Requirements

Earned bachelor’s degree plus 11 years of related work experience with at least 7 of the years in leadership role OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
Record of executive leadership in higher education or a comparable environment
Demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education
Experience working with Tribal governments
Experience driving enrollment growth, program expansion, or strategic initiatives
Demonstrated fiscal and personnel management experience
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Experience building collaborative partnerships across sectors
Commitment to inclusive excellence and equal opportunity
Appreciation for and commitment to the land-grant mission

Nice To Haves

Experience leading a regional or residential campus
Demonstrated success securing grants, contracts, or philanthropic support
Experience working with Native American students
Experience serving non-traditional and rural student populations
Familiarity with workforce-aligned academic programming

Responsibilities

Provide executive leadership for USU Blanding
Develop and implement a strategic vision centered on enrollment growth and regional vitality
Align academic programs with workforce and community needs
Build and sustain strong partnerships with local and Tribal governments, school districts, local employers, and community organizations
Represent and advocate for USU Blanding within the broader university system
Oversee campus budgets, personnel, and operations
Support advancement and fundraising efforts
Support innovative instructional delivery, including hybrid and distance education
Promote student success, retention, and completion
Collaborate closely with fellow Associate Vice Presidents across the statewide system