What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Dean of Students for Residential Life position at Valparaiso University?
Position Description:
The Assistant Dean serves as the Senior Housing Officer (SHO) and a key member of the Student Life leadership team. This position bridges the gap between daily housing operations and the broader divisional goals. The Assistant Dean provides strategic vision for the residential program, ensuring it aligns with the University’s Lutheran mission and student success initiatives. The Assistant Dean of Students for Residential Life is responsible for coordinating and implementing a comprehensive residential life housing and educational program consistent with the philosophies and goals of Valparaiso University and the Division of Student Life.
Major Responsibilities:
- Directly supervise and evaluate full-time staff members.
- Coordinate the general administration and operation of the University’s Residential Life programs and Housing operations including the operations of a 2,500-bed housing program consisting of nine traditional residence halls.
- Provide leadership for residential safety and security initiatives.
- Serve in the senior "Dean On-Call" rotation for the Division of Student Life. Acts as the primary decision-maker for high-level campus crises, providing consultation and guidance to first responders and on-campus staff. Serve as a member of the Student Life Leadership Team, contributing to divisional strategic planning and assessment.
- Serve as the primary departmental liaison for parents and families regarding student concerns.
- Develop and coordinate programs and activities that promote student learning and the creation of civil, respectful communities through constructive development and implementation of University and residence hall policies.
- Develop and maintain effective collaborative relationships with University partners.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Master’s Degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs, College Student Personnel, Counseling, Education, or related field required.
- Five to seven years of progressive experience in leadership and supervision in Residential Life. Including housing operations, residential programming curriculum, staff supervision, and parent/family engagement.
Other Qualifications:
- Strong skills in organizational leadership, crisis management, advising, problem-solving, budget management, and interpersonal, oral, and written communication.
- High degree of energy, patience, and sensitivity to the academic and personal needs of college students.
- Enthusiasm for teaching and learning that goes beyond the classroom.
All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.
To be considered for this position, you must upload:
Cover letter
Resume
List of 3 professional references
Answer all application questions
Please address the cover letter to:
Ryan Blevins, Dean of Students
Valparaiso University