Dean of Student Affairs

Job Summary The Dean of Student Affairs provides leadership, vision, and operational oversight for student life and engagement, including housing, dining, student activities, health services, student conduct, campus safety, and the Noble Fitness Center.This position plays a critical role in advancing Oklahoma Panhandle State University’s strategic plan by fostering a student-centered, data-informed environment that supports student success, retention, engagement, and belonging while strengthening OPSU’s identity as the region’s leading engine of opportunity.The successful candidate will demonstrate a positive student-centric mindset, transparent communication, and a commitment to engaged collaboration across campus to support holistic student development. Responsibilities Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive student life strategy aligned with institutional retention and completion goals. Partner with Academic Affairs, advising, and support services to integrate co-curricular experiences with academic success initiatives, including mentoring, tutoring, and early alert systems. Utilize institutional data (e.g., early alert systems, student engagement metrics) to identify at-risk students and implement proactive interventions. Assess student needs regularly and implement responsive programming that supports persistence, well-being, and completion. Oversee student activities, housing, and campus life programs that promote belonging, engagement, and community connection. Collaborate with campus partners to design high-impact student experiences that contribute to retention and institutional pride. Support the development of inclusive programming that reflects OPSU’s commitment to ensuring “Everyone Belongs.” Collaborate with enrollment management and outreach partners to support early engagement efforts, including concurrent students, transfer students, and re-entry populations. Assist in creating programming that improves student onboarding, transition, and first-year experience. Partner with financial aid and advising to provide proactive guidance related to affordability, financial literacy, and student success barriers. Oversee student conduct processes ensuring fair, consistent, and legally compliant practices. Maintain compliance with the CLERY Act and related federal and state regulations, including reporting and documentation. Partner with campus security, local law enforcement, and student support services to promote a safe campus environment. Help manage the HEPS grant. Serve as a project manager for housing operations, including facility improvements and long-term housing strategy development. Oversee food services and auxiliary areas to ensure quality student-centered services and operational efficiency. Ensure facilities and services align with student needs and support retention goals. Collaborate with Academic Affairs and faculty to support co-curricular learning, leadership development, and career readiness initiatives. Promote opportunities for experiential learning, student leadership, and engagement with employers and community partners. Lead departmental planning, budgeting, and assessment to ensure efficient, effective, and sustainable operations. Develop and implement standardized processes and continuous improvement practices across student affairs units. Supervise and mentor staff, promoting professional development and a culture of accountability and service excellence. Serve as a visible campus leader who actively promotes OPSU’s mission, vision, and values through consistent engagement with students, employees, and the community. Strengthen campus traditions, events, and partnerships that enhance institutional identity, pride, and regional impact. Represent the university at campus and community events, building relationships that support student success and institutional growth. Demonstrate ethical leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to social responsibility Maintain positive relationships with students, families, faculty, and staff. Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support student activities and events. Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee. Qualifications Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated experience in student affairs leadership, including student conduct, housing, or campus life. Knowledge of higher education laws and policies related to student affairs (e.g., due process, privacy, liability). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to use data to inform decisions Proven ability to lead teams, manage operations, and support staff development. Commitment to fostering a student-centered environment within a residential undergraduate institution. About Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU): OPSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is the first public Hispanic Serving Institution in Oklahoma. The university is a baccalaureate degree granting institution located in Goodwell, Oklahoma. Rooted in “Progress through Knowledge,” OPSU is committed to promoting excellence in the preparation of students for success in a global community. Our university achieved multiple rankings by the 2023 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings: #3 Best Value Regional Colleges West; #8 Top Public Colleges for the Western Region; and #17 Best Regional Colleges West. U.S New and World Report also recognized OPSU as one of the top ten universities in Oklahoma, standing out of our affordable tuition rates. #J-18808-Ljbffr Oklahoma Panhandle State University