Founded in 1840, Southwestern University is a prestigious liberal arts institution located in Georgetown, Texas, one of the most vibrant communities in the Austin area. With just under 1,500 undergraduate students, the University offers a unique and high-impact learning experience, focusing on intellectual and personal growth.
Southwestern is actively engaged in a comprehensive campaign to support student success, academic quality, and campus improvements. At the heart of these improvements is a one-of-a-kind liberal arts community that will be a natural extension of campus and provide a range of economic, cultural, and educational benefits, including serving as an educational and innovation hub for the area’s rapidly growing tech economy.
Southwestern is known for its commitment to diverse perspectives and a strong emphasis on fostering lifelong learning and intellectual and personal growth. Its faculty consists of 108 full-time members and 40 part-time faculty, maintaining a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1. Approximately 42% of students come from underrepresented groups, reflecting the institution’s dedication to diversity. Southwestern offers a range of degrees, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Fine Arts.
The Opportunity
Southwestern University is seeking a Vice President for Equity, Accountability, and Inclusive Excellence to further advance its commitment to diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging (DIBE). Reporting to President Laura Skandera Trombley, this leadership role will be responsible for developing and implementing campus-wide strategies that ensure that the values of Southwestern’s mission and culture are woven throughout its community.
With a primary focus on enriching the academic and social experiences of all students, faculty, and staff, the VP will be a transformational and strategic leader who will advance the institution’s DIBE goals in alignment with Southwestern’s recently developed tactical plan.
The ideal candidate should hold a terminal degree; possess at least five years of experience in leadership roles related to diversity, equity, and inclusion; and be able to drive decision-making and collaboration among various stakeholders. As an experienced manager, they will oversee several key areas and staff, including Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI); Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity Coalition; Title IX; and the Bias Response Team.
As Southwestern pursues an ambitious vision centered on student opportunity, the VP will play a key role in ensuring diversity, inclusion, and social justice remain at the forefront of the University’s progress into the future.