Academic Dean

Academic DeanFuture Generations UniversityRole Summary:Future Generations University seeks an entrepreneurial and mission-driven Academic Dean to lead our innovative graduate program in Applied Community Development. This role is ideal for a builder — someone who can strengthen academic programming, expand partnerships, and actively contribute to fundraising and external engagement.The Dean will serve as the Chief Academic Officer of the University, and will oversee the academic program and help shape the next phase of growth by advancing the University’s  distinctive model of applied, community-based education.Candidates from diverse academic, professional, and institutional backgrounds (including community colleges, international education, NGOs, and interdisciplinary programs) are encouraged to apply.About Future Generations University:Future Generations University is an accredited graduate institution dedicated to inclusive and sustainable community development.  Our mission is to advance research, learning, and action towards inclusive and sustainable community change worldwide. Through applied education, research, and partnerships, the University supports learners and practitioners working on issues such as climate resilience, equity, sustainable livelihoods, and community leadership. Its flagship master’s program combines online learning, field-based experience, and community practice, reaching learners across more than 50 countries. Headquartered in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, our scenic hub is located on top of North Fork Mountain near Franklin, West Virginia, at the headwaters of the Potomac River. Learn more: future.edu.Key Priorities of the Academic Dean Role:1. Academic Program DevelopmentLead the ongoing evolution of the MA in Applied Community Development, including the development of new courses and microcredential opportunities.Ensure academic quality, coherence, and alignment with accreditation expectations.Encourage innovative pedagogy grounded in applied, community-based learning.Support program assessment and continuous improvement.2. Partnerships and External EngagementBuild strategic partnerships with universities, NGOs, foundations, and community-based organizations.Strengthen pathways for collaboration with global and regional networks (including Appalachia, alumni and international partners).Represent the University with credibility among academic, philanthropic, and practitioner communities.Cultivate relationships that support student recruitment, program growth, and shared initiatives.3. Revenue Generation and Resource DevelopmentCollaborate closely with the President and advancement leadership to support University fundraising.Contribute to grant development and foundation and/or partner relationships.Develop income opportunities through alternative credential pathways and partnerships. Generate new scholarships through proactive fundraising and donor engagementDiversify revenue generation through cultivating dynamic learning and research partnerships Articulate compelling academic and programmatic priorities to increase enrollment.Serve as a visible ambassador for the University’s mission and impact.4. Academic Leadership and AdministrationServe as Chief Academic Officer, reporting to the President.Chair the Dean’s Council, the academic governance body of the University.Recruit, supervise, and support faculty and instructional staff.Ensure that all faculty meet institutional and accreditation qualification standards.Lead efforts to increase faculty research productivity, enhance scholarly impact of faculty and alumni, and support career milestones by developing a robust publications program Oversee admissions, student success, and academic policies.Work with the University’s Accreditation Liaison Officer to ensure compliance with accreditation and regulatory expectations.Foster a collaborative, mission-aligned academic culture.Background and Qualifications:The ideal candidate will bring:A doctoral degree or terminal degree in a related field of studySenior experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and/or applied education settings. International experience is a plusA strong commitment to community-based, justice-oriented, and/or sustainability-focused workExperience developing academic programs or innovative learning modelsExperience maintaining third-party accreditationComfort building partnerships across sectors and geographiesAbility to contribute meaningfully to fundraising and external engagementStrong communication skills (oral and written) and strategic thinkingAn entrepreneurial mindset suited to a small, mission-driven institutionCompensation and Benefits:Salary will commensurate with experience and qualifications, $95,000 - $100,000. FGU offers a benefits package, which includes, Retirement Plan with Matching, Health/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Dependent Care Account (DCA), Flexible Time Off (FTO) / Flexible Scheduling. Location and hours:This position is classified as full-time/exempt and will be hybrid with regular travel to headquarters in Franklin, West Virginia. This position will require fairly regular domestic travel to work with partners, funders, and attend conferences, and occasional international travel may also be required to attend both conferences and University events/programs. Physical Demands:This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions in both office settings and field environments as necessary. This position may include extended time periods of sitting, working at a computer, and participation in virtual and in-person meetings as necessary. This role requires the ability to occasionally travel, both domestically and internationally as required. This may include travel to locations that are not accessible by public transportation, thus the individual must be able to meet the travel requirements with or without reasonable accommodation. The position may be required to occasionally lift and/or carry materials weighing up to 20-25 lbs. Future Generations University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer:Future Generations University does not discriminate and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or genetic information. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply for job openings for which they qualify. In addition to federal law requirements, Future Generations University complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. Additional Information & How to Apply:Information about Future Generations University is available on our website www.future.eduInterested candidates should send a letter of motivation, three professional references and CV/Resume to hr@future.edu.