Dean of the School of Health Sciences

Whitworth University•Whitworth University Campus, WA

6h•Onsite

About The Position

Whitworth University seeks a visionary, collaborative, and mission-driven leader to serve as Dean of the School of Health Sciences. Reporting to the Provost and Executive Vice President, the dean provides strategic, academic, and operational leadership for a growing portfolio of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. This leader will guide the next phase of the school's growth, including launching new nursing and social work programs, advancing academic excellence, strengthening healthcare partnerships, and fostering student success while advancing Whitworth's Christian mission. The School of Health Sciences is entering an exciting period of growth and innovation.

Requirements

An earned doctorate or other terminal degree in health sciences, a health profession, behavioral health, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
Successful prior service as a dean or associate dean with substantial academic, personnel, budget, and strategic responsibilities.
Senior leadership experience with accredited health professions programs, including specialized accreditation, state approval or authorization, assessment, and ongoing compliance; working knowledge of nursing, OTD, and DPT education and their distinct requirements.
A record of developing or materially expanding academic programs, including planning, approval, launch, evaluation, and responsible resource allocation.
Demonstrated commitment to students and evidence of effective leadership and development of faculty and staff.
A personal commitment to Christian faith and the ability to articulate how faith informs vocation and leadership within Whitworth’s ecumenical community.
Experience building substantive healthcare and community partnerships; strong communication skills and sound financial and organizational judgment.

Nice To Haves

Direct dean level oversight of nursing, OTD, and DPT, including experience with CCNE, ACOTE, CAPTE, and state nursing board processes.
Experience securing initial accreditation or sustaining specialized accreditation through significant program growth.
Demonstrated success in clinical partnership development, interprofessional education, graduate and doctoral education, fundraising, and external engagement.
Academic and professional accomplishments supporting appointment at a senior faculty rank under Whitworth’s policies.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for the School of Health Sciences and contribute to university-wide planning and initiatives.
Lead the successful implementation of new nursing and social work programs while sustaining excellence across established health professions programs.
Ensure academic quality, accreditation compliance, and continuous improvement.
Recruit, develop, and support outstanding faculty, academic leaders, and staff.
Foster enrollment growth, student success, and innovative academic pathways.
Build partnerships with healthcare systems, community organizations, alumni, employers, and donors.
Promote a culture grounded in Christian faith, academic excellence, collaboration, and service.