Associate Vice President for Student Affairs/ Dean of Students

University Of Central Oklahoma•Edmond, OK

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students (AVP/SA) will serve as a key member of the University’s leadership team, providing vision, direction, and executive oversight for a comprehensive range of student affairs programs and services. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success, the AVP/SA advances the University’s mission by fostering a student-centered environment that supports holistic development, wellness, engagement, and success. This position plays a pivotal role in strategic planning, policy development, and operational leadership across multiple departments, ensuring excellence in student experience and retention, and alignment with institutional goals. The AVP/SA also serves as the Dean of Students, providing visible leadership and advocacy for students, shaping a campus culture grounded in belonging, integrity, and well-being.

Requirements

Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited university.
Seven plus (7+) years of progressive administrative experience in higher education.
Proven leadership in student affairs administration, including program development, assessment, and financial management.
Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively, uphold ethical standards, and model professionalism, civility, and integrity.
Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with the ability to evaluate operations, assess outcomes, and drive continuous improvement.
Exceptional leadership, organizational, and project management skills.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
Strong background in strategic planning, organizational development, and financial management.
Demonstrated capacity to work effectively across a diverse academic community and to build collaborative partnerships.
Deep understanding of student development theory, wellness, and engagement best practices.
Ability to analyze data, interpret trends, and develop responsive institutional strategies.

Nice To Haves

Doctorate or terminal degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
Demonstrated leadership experience overseeing one or more of the functional areas listed above.
Knowledge of emerging issues and trends in higher education and student affairs.
Proven ability to use data-driven decision-making and assessment to guide planning and policy.
Experience in crisis management, emergency response, and student behavioral intervention.
Strong understanding of the impact student affairs has on student development, retention and graduation.

Responsibilities

Strategic and Operational Leadership Provide vision and direction for key areas within Student Affairs, including: Student Engagement Community Engagement Wellness Center Center for Counseling and Well-Being Disability Support Services Student Accountability & Conflict Resolution
Partner with the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success to develop, implement, and assess divisional strategies, goals, and key performance indicators.
Lead the planning, coordination, and evaluation of comprehensive programs that enhance students’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Manage operational effectiveness and oversee fiscal planning, including administration of Student Activity Fee funds and budgets for assigned departments.
Provide support and guidance & vision for the Wellness Center facilities, including the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake.
Student Advocacy and Campus Engagement Serve as Dean of Students, acting as a visible and accessible advocate for students and a resource for addressing student concerns and needs.
Coordinate the Behavioral Assessment Team (BAT) and ensure effective response to student crises and emergencies.
Serve as liaison to the Student Government Association (UCOSA) in collaboration with the VP for ESS.
Promote student leadership, engagement, and community-building through intentional programming and partnerships.
Collaboration and Partnerships Build and sustain collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, and campus partners to support student success initiatives.
Develop strategic partnerships with local colleges, universities, agencies, and health providers to enhance wellness and support networks.
Represent the Division and University to internal and external constituencies, reinforcing UCO’s commitment to student success and well-being.
Executive Leadership Provide counsel and delegated authority to act on behalf of the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success when appropriate.
Review reports, evaluate program performance, and recommend improvements or policy changes.
Appoint and supervise department directors and managers, ensuring professional growth and accountability.