Dean of Hendricks Chapel

Application Instructions

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in this profile.

WittKieffer is assisting Syracuse University in this search. Review of applications has begun and will continue until an appointment has been made.

Please direct all nominations and applications to Robin Mamlet and Cathryn Davis through the WittKieffer Candidate Portal by clicking here: candidateportal.wittkieffer.com

Job Description

Reporting to the chancellor, the dean of Hendricks Chapel serves as the principal leader of religious and spiritual life at Syracuse University. The dean nurtures and safeguards the spiritual well-being of the campus community, strengthening connection and relationship-building across all faith traditions while advancing the university’s commitment to a welcoming environment.

Hendricks Chapel is firmly woven into the daily life of the university, serving students, faculty, and staff across a broad spectrum of identities and beliefs. The university seeks a dean who can build upon this strong foundation – extending the chapel’s reach, influence, and impact; deepening its engagement with the full campus community; and shaping an aspirational and forward-looking vision for the chapel and its leadership team. The dean provides strategic guidance for chapel staff in programming, community engagement, and the arts; oversees the Chaplains Council; and offers administrative support to all affiliated religious organizations. The chapel leads an acclaimed suite of music programs anchored by the nationally recognized Hendricks Chapel Choir and hosts a robust calendar of major university ceremonies and signature events.

The dean collaborates extensively across the university with students, faculty, staff, and administrators, while also engaging meaningfully with the greater Syracuse community. Beyond supporting the chaplains, the dean plays a vital role in fostering students’ religious, spiritual, and ethical development. As complex issues emerge—whether globally or on campus—the dean is uniquely positioned to convene multiple perspectives and help the community find common ground.

The dean leads a team of approximately 13 administrative staff, 15 chaplaincies, and 25 affiliated religious groups and manages an operating budget of roughly $1.6 million. Some travel is required for donor cultivation, professional conferences, and university representation.

Education and Experience

Professional And Academic Credentials

• Ordination or equivalent professional standing within a recognized faith tradition.
• A theological degree (seminary degree required; advanced degree preferred).
• Significant professional experience in ministry, chaplaincy, spiritual leadership, or religious life roles, ideally with exposure to higher education settings; experience connecting religious and spiritual life to the academic mission of a research university is a distinct asset.