Associate Vice President for Inclusive Access & Belonging - Michigan State University

Another Source • East Lansing, MI

7h • $185,000 - $210,000

About The Position

Another Source's client, Michigan State Universit y, is recruiting an Associate Vice President for Inclusive Access & Belonging to join their team in East Lansing, Michigan.

Michigan State University (MSU) is one of the nation’s premier public research universities and a proud member of the Big Ten Conference. With more than 50,000 students and a global network of over 500,000 alumni, MSU is recognized for its academic excellence, research innovation, and deep commitment to access, equity, and student success. As a top-tier, research-intensive institution, MSU is dedicated to advancing knowledge while fostering a campus culture where all students can thrive.

Student Affairs plays a vital role in shaping the Spartan experience- supporting student engagement, development, well-being, and success both inside and outside the classroom. MSU is committed to cultivating a campus environment grounded in inclusive access and belonging, ensuring that every student has the opportunity, support, and community needed to persist and graduate.

The Associate Vice President for Inclusive Access & Belonging (AVP/IAB) serves as a key member of the Vice President for Student Affairs’ senior leadership team. This is a highly visible, institution-wide leadership role responsible for shaping strategy, strengthening student advocacy, and advancing belonging and student success initiatives across the university. This leader will oversee a comprehensive portfolio of student-facing centers and services while championing policies and practices that enhance retention, persistence, engagement, and well-being. The AVP/IAB will serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, a collaborator with academic and campus partners, and a steady presence during complex student issues and crises. The work requires both strategic vision and operational excellence- and offers the opportunity to make lasting impact on the Spartan community.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in higher education, student affairs, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in student affairs or a closely related area within higher education.
• Significant experience overseeing comprehensive student services and development functions.
• Demonstrated success advancing student success, well-being, and belonging through impactful programs and services.
• Proven ability to lead large teams, manage complex budgets, and oversee multifaceted operations.
• Strong political acumen and the ability to navigate complex organizational environments.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills across students, faculty, staff, senior leaders, donors, and external partners.
• Experience collaborating effectively across divisions and with academic leadership.

Nice To Haves

• Doctorate or terminal degree in a related field.
• Experience leading organizational change initiatives in large, research-intensive universities.
• Knowledge of student success strategies related to belonging, retention, and graduation.
• Familiarity with threat assessment protocols, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to build and mentor high-performing teams.
• Experience overseeing large student-serving facilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership for programs, services, and initiatives that advance inclusive access, belonging, and student success.
• Partner with the Vice President for Student Affairs to shape divisional strategy and align priorities with university-wide goals.
• Serve as a visible, accessible advocate for students, addressing concerns and ensuring equitable, student-centered policies and practices.
• Lead the development and implementation of policies and procedures that enhance student learning, engagement, and well-being.
• Apply evidence-based practices and student development theory to strengthen programs and identify innovative approaches to student support.
• Represent Student Affairs in university committees, task forces, and external engagements.
• Provide executive oversight for a broad portfolio of units, including: Center for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students Gender and Sexuality Campus Center MOSAIC Center for Education and Outreach (Religious, Spiritual, and Secular Identities; Women and Gender Equity) MSU Multicultural Center Office of Multicultural Enrichment and Advocacy Partnering for Access, Success, and Support Student Parent and Caregiver Resource Center
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and long-term financial planning for assigned units.
• Align unit-level priorities and learning outcomes with divisional and institutional strategy.
• Participate in annual budget planning and partner with Advancement and others to pursue external funding and philanthropic support.
• Champion institutional policies and initiatives that improve student retention, persistence, graduation, and sense of belonging.
• Collaborate with campus partners including Inclusive Excellence, Undergraduate Education, and Residential & Hospitality Services to create integrated student success strategies.
• Support and elevate Registered Student Organizations that promote cultural, historical, and educational observances.
• Provide senior leadership during complex and critical student situations, including behavioral concerns, mental health emergencies, campus disruptions, and safety-related incidents.

Benefits

• Michigan State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance; and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive