What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dean for the College Humanities and Social Sciences position at Buffkin / Baker (Fayetteville State University)?
Fayetteville State University, located in Fayetteville, NC and a constituent institution of the prestigious University of North Carolina system, is seeking a strategic, visionary, thoughtful, and community building leader to serve as the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
About Fayetteville State University
Founded in 1867, Fayetteville State University (FSU; University) is a public, comprehensive, historically Black university, and is the second oldest state assisted institution in North Carolina. Since 1972, FSU has been one of 17 institutions within the broader UNC System.
Situated on a scenic campus of more 156 acres, FSU serves a diverse student population and is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and social mobility. FSU offers robust and innovative degree programs rooted in the liberal arts tradition. The university advances knowledge through the integration of teaching, learning, research, and public service. FSU strives to meet the educational, career, and personal aspirations of its students from rural, military, and other diverse backgrounds so that they are equipped with academic and practical knowledge to serve local, state, national, and global communities as enlightened citizens, globally astute leaders, and engaged solution creators.
The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs through its colleges and schools, including programs in business, education, social work, nursing, psychology, criminal justice, intelligence studies, and the sciences. FSU has many nationally ranked academic programs, including the school of nursing and online MBA. In addition to exceptional pre-professional programs, FSU has a proud tradition in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. FSU also touts phenomenal Army and Air Force ROTC programs that annually develop students into nationally ranked cadets, prepared to lead successfully in the US military.
FSU emphasizes small class sizes, personalized instruction, and faculty mentorship. Students benefit from research opportunities, internships, leadership development, and community service initiatives that prepare them for professional success and civic responsibility. The University also provides flexible learning options, including online and hybrid programs designed to meet the needs of working adults and non-traditional students.
Campus life at FSU is vibrant and student-centered, featuring numerous student organizations, Greek life, cultural events, and NCAA Division II athletics. The Broncos compete in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).
With a strong legacy rooted in access and empowerment, Fayetteville State University continues to advance its mission of transforming lives through education, innovation, and service.
Mission
Fayetteville State University, a Historically Black College and University and the second oldest public university in North Carolina, offers robust and innovative bachelor’s and master’s degree programs rooted in the liberal arts tradition as well as the Doctor of Education. The university advances knowledge through the integration of teaching, learning, research and public service. FSU strives to meet the educational, career and personal aspirations of its traditional and non-traditional students from rural, military and other diverse backgrounds so that they are equipped with academic and practical knowledge to serve local, state, national and global communities as enlightened citizens, globally astute leaders and engaged solution creators.
We accomplish our mission through:
- A rigorous academic environment
- A student-centered education
- Dedicated staff and scholarly faculty
- Specialized offerings and services to meet the needs of traditional, online, non-traditional, and military affiliated students
- Faculty and student engagement and partnerships with industry, employers, alumni and the community
Vision
Fayetteville State University, the second oldest public university in North Carolina and a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina System, will be the regional university of choice for students from rural, military, and other diverse backgrounds who are poised to become visionary leaders who transform communities, states and nations.
Core Values
- Integrity: Commitment to transparency
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Producing career and life-ready global citizens
- Shared Governance: Engaging all members of the university community in decision making
- Collaborations and Partnerships: Strengthening relationships among alumni, community, and other stakeholders
- Innovation: Creatively pursuing excellence in organizational endeavors
- Cultural Connectivity: Preserving the University’s HBCU legacy and pride
About the Dean
The Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (Dean) is the unit head of the College and reports directly to the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The Dean has ultimate responsibility for the quality of academic programs and instruction, and the effectiveness of educational support and enrichment activities in the college. The Dean must be an effective advocate for the College to internal and external constituents, and must also ensure that college goals and outcomes are consistent with the strategic priorities of
FSU and the UNC Board of Governors. Working in collaboration with department chairs, faculty and staff, the Dean is expected to be an effective steward of fiscal and human resources.
The Dean’s scope of leadership and responsibility includes two Associate/Assistant Deans, three Distinguished Professorships, 10 academic departments, a Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, and an Executive Assistant. Approximately 2200 of FSU’s students have majors that are within the CHSS.
Specific Responsibilities
eading and assessing continuous quality improvement processes for the College.
Managing fiscal resources for the College and ensuring adherence to university fiscal policies and procedures.
Overseeing all personnel matters for the College related to hiring, tenure, promotion, retention, and performance evaluation processes.
Representing the College at official university events and serving as a key communication link between the university administration, faculty, and students for purposes of information sharing as well as mediation when necessary.
Completing other duties assigned by the Provost/Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chancellor.
Qualifications
- An earned doctorate in one of the College’s disciplines or a closely related discipline from an accredited college or university.
- At least eight years of higher education administrative experience that includes serving as a department chair.
- Accomplishments in teaching, scholarly/creative activities, and community engagement/service that qualify the candidate for appointment as a tenured faculty member within a department in the College.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities:
- Extensive knowledge of postsecondary education, to include budget management, assessment, faculty recruitment and retention practices, best practices in instruction and academic support.
- Excellent communication skills that enable the Dean to articulate the vision, mission, and needs of the CHSS to multiple internal and external constituencies.
- Strong organizational and interpersonal skills needed to manage a multi-unit, multi-disciplinary, academic enterprise.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
Compensation
Compensation will be commensurate with experience and include a base salary and a competitive benefits package.
Applications, Nominations and Expressions of Interest
To make a nomination, provide a referral, or for additional information, please use the contact information below. While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration as review of submitted materials will begin immediately. The ideal start date is July 1, 2026.
To apply, please submit a resume and/or vita, and cover letter, to:
FSUDeanCHSS@buffkinbaker.com
Martin Baker, Partner & Practice Leader, Buffkin / Baker
336-721-9100
Ken Carrick, Partner, Buffkin / Baker
980.296.5401
Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner, Buffkin / Baker
704-377-7828
Fayetteville State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and employment and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, National Guard or veteran status. Moreover, Fayetteville State University values diversity and actively seeks to recruit talented students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds. Fayetteville State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and seeks priority referrals of protected veterans for our openings.