General Information

Position Title: Vice President of Institutional Planning and Diversity
Control Number: 001283
Reports To: 000515
Department Name: Office for Institutional Planning and Diversity
Location: Office for Institutional Planning and Diversity
Date Prepared: July-08
Exempt: Yes

Primary Purpose

As a member of the President's Staff, the Dean for Institutional Diversity will provide expertise and guidance on diversity-related issues and bring his/her critical perspective to bear in the consideration of all major policy initiatives.  The dean will work with colleagues in Middlebury's Commons residential system to foster the educational benefits that derive from living within a diverse student community; and collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to develop a program of diversity-oriented lectures, symposia, and performances.  S/He will also work with College offices and departments to advance the institution's general commitment to diversity, serving as both leader and consultant in the effort to recruit and retain a faculty, staff, and student body of varied backgrounds and interests.

Responsibilities

Works cooperatively with others and accepts direction from supervisors.

Although this position will evolve over time to meet institutional needs and the president's agenda, the initial responsibilities include the following:

Strategic Leadership--Work internally with administrators and faculty to effect qualitative enhancements in the campus culture around diversity, broadly defined.  Work externally with people and organizations involved in the national discussion of diversity in order to bring new ideas and perspectives to Middlebury College and the surrounding community.  Strive to insure that diversity issues are and integral aspect of all institutional initiatives and strategic planning.

Diversity and Student Experience--Work with Commons teams and student affairs staff to develop programs and strategies for enriching the educational experiences of all Middlebury students.  Consult with faculty to enhance their capacity for addressing diversity issues in the classroom.  Oversee staff members who develop College programming in diversity and multiculturalism.

Policy Development--Advise the president, senior administration, and all levels of the College leadership on diversity issues. Function as subject matter expert on institutional diversity policy related to all aspects of governance and administration, including crisis management.

Recruitment of faculty and staff--Collaborate with academic departments and Human Resources to create diversity recruitment plans for faculty and staff that address advertising, networking, recruitment outreach activities and other techniques for increasing and retaining the number of candidates from underrepresented groups.

Outcome Assessment--Create, maintain and monitor progress towards diversity goals.  Develop or identify instruments, including valid and reliable surveys, for ongoing assessment of diversity issues, in collaboration with College and external resources.  Partner with Human Resources on diversity training for faculty and staff, advise on needs assessment, content, and delivery issues.  Generate annual report, highlighting activities and outcomes in support of faculty, staff, and student diversity.

Education & Training

Masters degree required; Ph.D. preferred.  Academic field open.  Candidates with appropriate credentials may have the opportunity to teach courses.

Experience

The successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to work with multiple constituencies, including students, faculty, and staff.  5 to 7 years experience in a college or educational setting required.  Prior experience in working with diversity-related issues preferred.  Familiarity with the liberal arts college environment a plus.

Knowledge

Other