The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is taking a big step forward in its commitment to diversity. The university has created a new position, vice chancellor for diversity, to maximize diversity, cultural awareness, and civility initiatives.
Applications for qualified candidates are now being accepted.
“Diversity, civility, and community are core campus values,” said Chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek. “They enhance the academic environment and support a robust educational experience for its students. Diversity is a key component of our Vol Vision strategic plan and effort to become a Top 25 public research university.”
The vice chancellor for diversity will report to the chancellor and serve on the chancellor’s cabinet. He or she will work closely with deans, department heads, directors; the Chancellor’s Commissions for Blacks, LGBT people, and Women; the Council for Diversity and Interculturalism; and other campus leaders.
The new vice chancellor will be responsible for:
- helping to recruit and retain diverse faculty and staff;
- increasing the enrollment and retention of diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional students;
- promoting a campus environment that appreciates individual differences, values equal opportunity for all, and serves to eliminate barriers based on factors such as race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status;
- establishing systems of accountability for diversity matters throughout the university; and
- other duties as assigned by the chancellor.
Applicants for the new vice chancellor position should:
- have a doctorate or terminal degree. A master’s degree is required.
- have sufficient academic credentials to be a faculty member.
- be knowledgeable about Affirmative Action, Equal Employment Opportunity, LGBT issues, and inclusion, particularly in higher education or similarly complex organizations.
- have experience in supervising employees, managing a budget and implementing programs.
- be a visionary leader with management skills necessary to enhance diversity and equity issues in a scholarly setting.
- be involved in national associations and conferences related to promoting diversity and inclusivity.
- understand how being culturally competent will help students perform in a multicultural workforce and global economy.
- be an effective communicator.
- understand how a major research university works.
The UT search committee is chaired by Bob Rider, dean of the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. Members are Vincent Anfara, president of the UT Faculty Senate and head of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies; Avery Howard, an undergraduate student; Ernest Brothers, assistant dean of the Graduate School; Wanda Costen, associate professor in the Department of Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management; Shane Colter, office of information technology; R.J. Hinde, associate dean and professor, College of Arts and Sciences; Margie Nichols, vice chancellor for communications; Mary Papke, English professor; Anton Reece, director of the Student Success Center; Jennifer Richter, associate director of the Office of Equity and Diversity; Todd Skelton, graduate student; and Donna Thomas, director of the Thornton Athletics Student Life Center.
Applications, due by August 22, 2012, should include a cover letter, a resume or curriculum vitae, and five or more references. Electronic applications are encouraged and should be sent to Gary Daugherty at gdaugherty@parkersearch.com or Porsha L. Williams at pwilliams@parkersearch.com. Applications should be mailed to Daugherty or Williams at Parker Executive Search, Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2900, Atlanta, Georgia 30328.
For more information, contact Rider at 974-2201 or the search firm at (770) 804-1996.
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C O N T A C T :
Amy Blakely (865-974-5034, ablakely@utk.edu)