University of Nebraska at Kearney

Dean, College of Education
Job Description

Job Summary:

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Dean of the College of Education.Reporting directly to the Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the Dean is the chief administrative officer of the College, which includes the Departments of Communication Disorders, Counseling, School Psychology & Family Science, Educational Administration, Kinesiology & Sport Sciences and Teacher Education.

 

The Dean must be committed to shared governance and instructional excellence and bring innovative experience with providing quality instructional programs, serving schools and communities, expanding enrollment, access, and program delivery, and promoting scholarly and creative activity of faculty and students. The Dean will be a collaborative and collegial leader that works closely with UNK and NU system Deans and foundations and lends expertise to systemwide and statewide initiatives and resource development.

 

Additional Info

Required Qualifications:

An earned doctorate in the field of education represented by one of the departments of the College

Eligible to be tenured at the rank of Professor in a department of the College of Education

Eligible to be admitted to the Graduate Faculty of the University of Nebraska

Teaching experience at an accredited post-secondary institution

Administrative experience at the departmental chair level 

Management experience with significant budget management experience

 

 

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with accreditation relevant to the college

Significant experience in collaboration in a university system or external entities

Familiarity with the programs of the college; academic, research, experiential learning, and resource development achievements

About Us:

The College of Education is a state and regional leader in programs that prepare educators as well as professionals in the speech-language pathology, community counseling, sports, fitness, and recreation fields. UNK offers undergraduate programs for the preparation of early childhood, elementary, middle level, secondary, special education and K-12 teachers; Master's degree programs in curriculum and instruction, special education, instructional technology, elementary and secondary administration, speech-language pathology, school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and reading; Specialist programs in school psychology and educational administration; and highly-qualified professionals in recreation, exercise science, and athletic training.

 

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. As part of the University of Nebraska system, UNK offers a supportive, student-focused environment with the resources of a larger institution. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves around 6,000 students and is known for its strong academics, welcoming campus culture, and dedication to student success. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of education to transform lives.

 

As a University of Nebraska employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and wellness programs plus 13 paid holidays each year, generous leave options, and tuition remission.

Information at a Glance
Req Id:  2147
Campus Name:  University of Nebraska Kearney (UNK)
Org Unit:  Education UNK
Job Location:  Kearney, NE 68847
Application Review Date:  3/2/26
Open Until Filled:  Yes
Advertised Salary:  $150,000 to $170,000
Job Type:  Full-Time
Faculty Appointment: 
Worksite Eligibility:  On-site
Benefits Eligible:  Yes
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:  Paul Twigg, twiggp@unk.edu
Special Instructions to Applicant:  Submit: (1) Letter of interest (2) Curriculum vitae (3) Contact information for five references

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

Posting Start Date:  2/9/26