Associate Dean of Residential and Community Life

Associate Dean of Residential and Community Life

The Associate Dean for Residential and Community Life will provide leadership for a comprehensive residential program at a highly-selective, national liberal arts college where a strong residential program is an important element in student learning and development. Leading a department of 8 professional staff and 60+ student staff, the Associate Dean will play a key role in developing the vision for a residential community where engagement, civility and cross cultural dialog are primary drivers for success in our diverse and inclusive community.

Overseeing the residential life program and the housing operations team, the Associate Dean will also be charged with implementing the Honor Code student conduct system within the residential experience. Moving from a reactive student conduct system to a proactive community development model, the Associate Dean will bring best practices including conflict resolution, engagement across difference and restorative justice models to Wellesley. Focusing on leveraging our strengths in intercultural education and our values of service to others, the role will support students' intersectional identities while learning how to uphold our community values.

The Associate Dean for Residence Life and Community Development will work in close partnership with the Vice President and Dean of Students and Student Life colleagues to define and execute the residential curriculum as part of the strategic planning initiatives at Wellesley.

Primary Position Responsibilities

• Lead a team of residential life staff members to provide an enriching and inclusive, residential environment that fosters both living and learning. Supervise and promote professional development of 8 professionals and one support staff. Provide leadership and direction as it relates to hiring, training, development and evaluation for professional and paraprofessional staff.
• In partnership with Student Life colleagues, the Associate Dean will design and lead the implementation of a comprehensive approach to community building through civil discourse and community dialogue in the residential spaces and across the College.
• Collaborating with faculty and others on the strategic planning implementation teams, the Associate Dean will play a central role in bringing the vision of the residential curriculum to life and to integrate it in the overall curriculum.
• Lead the overhaul of the student conduct system which consists of an honor code council model and a drug and alcohol policy adjudication process. Infuse new models of restorative justice, or other best practice models for developing a stronger community where honor, integrity and respect are valued and lived.
• Work collaboratively with campus partners in facilities, dining services, campus police and other divisional and college partners to oversee the daily operations of the residence halls and ensure a safe, comfortable living environment for students.
• Participate in the campus emergency on call system. Oversee the emergency response for Residence Life staff in relation to response times, schedule, protocol, post incident assessment, and training related to emergency response related to: natural disasters, standard on call situations, and campus emergency procedures that impact on campus housing students. Serve on-call second level to oversee the management of crisis situations
• Oversee the work of the housing operations, manage policies and processes.
• Serve on the Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Student's Cabinet to contribute to the divisional approach to the student experience.
• Strategically allocate and oversee the departmental budgets of approximately $500,000 (exclusive of salaries) for both residence life and housing.
• Review and implement of a comprehensive set of policies, procedures, and protocols in line with best practices.
• In partnership with the Associate Dean of Students, develop a comprehensive departmental assessment program focused on both student experience and departmental effectiveness.
• Maintain high visibility within the residence halls and the campus community by dining with students, supporting student events, and actively engaging in committees and campus programs.
• Stay abreast of current research in the field and continually work to enhance the student experience in ways that maintain cultural relevance and student growth and development.

Basic Qualifications

• 15 years of progressive leadership experience in residential life with some experience in housing operations and contributions to construction and renovation projects
• Masters Degree in higher education administration, educational leadership, student development, counseling, or a related field., Ph.D. preferred.
• Experience training, supervising and professionally developing a diverse professional and student staff
• Experience with housing and student case management software, preferably Maxient

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer's sponsorship now or in the future

Skills and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal communication skills including skills in written and electronic communications and the effective use of social media
• An understanding of student development theory and a genuine interest in the development of undergraduate women.
• Demonstrated use of assessment strategies to improve student residential experience
• Experience maintaining a fiscally responsible budget
• Understanding of the goals of a liberal arts education and an ability to create a seamless living and learning environment within the residential program

Salary:

The pay range for this role is $135,000.00 - $145,000.00

Company Description and Benefits

Wellesley's mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae.

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being and professional growth. As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success.

• Competitive Compensation : Experience competitive wages ensuring your dedication is recognized and rewarded.
• Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.
• Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail.
• Paid Time Off : Take advantage of paid vacations, personal days, sick time, and holidays to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life harmony.
• Retirement Savings : Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees
• Work/Life and Wellness: A hybrid work environment for select positions (additional details will be provided during the interview process), caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
• Professional Development: Enhance your skills and explore growth opportunities through continuing training and pathways for growth within our supportive environment.
• Tuition and Education Benefits : Invest in your education with tuition benefits, and access resources to navigate student loan forgiveness, reinforcing our commitment to your ongoing learning.
• Campus Privileges : Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community.

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!

Worker Sub-Type

Administrative

Time Type

Full time

EEO Statement

At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members of the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish.

Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals in hiring and advancement based on any legally protected status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to the College community are encouraged to apply.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.