Chief Diversity Officer

Villanova University, a premier institution of higher education, seeks a visionary leader for the position of Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (VPDEI). The VPDEI will join the President's cabinet and help to steward Villanova's pursuit of its greatest aspirations, modeling an inclusive environment that welcomes and leverages diversity in all its forms.

The ideal candidate will be deeply student-centered, drawing inspiration from Villanova's Catholic-Augustinian character. This position reports directly to the president and will engage with academic, administrative, and other units of the University to develop strategies for fostering a community where individual differences are acknowledged, valued, and appreciated.

• Lead the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Oversee the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, including the Dr. Terry Nance Center for Dialogue.
• Evaluate and Improve Diversity Initiatives: Review, evaluate, and communicate the effectiveness of current diversity and inclusion strategies, making recommendations for best practices.
• Develop and Deliver Training Programs: Supervise the design and delivery of training programs for faculty, staff, and students.
• Recruit and Retain Diverse Talent: Collaboratively establish and assess plans for recruitment and retention of diverse faculty, staff, and students.
• Track Diversity Metrics: Work with leadership to develop metrics and dashboards to track diversity initiatives.
• Engage with External Audiences: Coordinate with external audiences on diversity initiatives and contribute to the national conversation on best practices.
• Participate in Grant Proposals and Fundraising: Participate in grant proposals, fundraising, and establishing corporate partnerships.
• Assess Academic Instruction: Assess academic instruction to promote cultural awareness.

• A master's degree is required.
• Strong track record in student-centered practice in an educational or similar environment.
• Knowledge of national best practices regarding organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Substantial senior-level higher education administrative experience.
• Ability to establish an environment of transparency and open communication.
• Understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion frameworks, with the ability to engage with various equity issues.
• Ability to assess campus climate and develop measurable goals for diversity initiatives.
• Capacity to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.