The University of Central Missouri Announces National Search for Leadership Position

By Alex Greenwood, May 22, 2024

 

Position Offers Exceptional Opportunity for Higher Education Leader

 

WARRENSBURG, MO – The University of Central Missouri (UCM) announced the commencement of a national search for its next provost and vice president for academic affairs.

 

UCM President Roger Best appointed a dedicated committee, chaired by Dr. Shari Bax, vice president for student engagement and experience, to conduct a comprehensive candidate search.

 

"At UCM, we are looking for energetic, creative candidates who are ready to build on their impressive achievements to redefine what’s possible in higher education,” Dr. Bax said. “This position presents an exceptional opportunity for an accomplished higher education leader to further enhance their career at our highly respected, dynamic institution."

Based in historic Warrensburg, Missouri, UCM is renowned for providing a high-quality, affordable education that extends beyond the classroom. Founded in 1871, it is one of Missouri's oldest universities and currently serves 13,734 students (as of spring 2024) from 48 states and 49 countries. The university prides itself on offering transformative service-learning projects, study abroad experiences and other real-world learning opportunities that prepare students for success.

 

The university offers more than 150 graduate and undergraduate programs across two campuses, online and on-site at nearby Whiteman Air Force Base. With 388 distinguished faculty members, UCM continues to make significant impacts in modern classrooms, labs and performance centers. All programs at UCM are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. UCM is also a state leader in program-specific accreditations by national accrediting organizations.

 

The provost and vice president for academic affairs at UCM plays a critical role in creating a compelling, shared vision for the university and developing initiatives that bring this vision to life. The provost assists deans in promoting faculty and program development, leads strategic enrollment planning and fosters collaborative alliances within the campus and community. The provost’s leadership ensures a high-quality learning environment that encompasses the entire academic experience.

 

The provost will also manage the budget for academic affairs, serve on the President’s Council and Strategic Leadership Team and actively engage with the Warrensburg community.

 

The ideal candidate will possess strong collaborative and leadership skills, experience with shared governance and faculty development, expertise in strategic enrollment planning and financial aid policy, and a successful track record in resource alignment. Excellent communication, negotiation and problem-solving abilities are essential, along with familiarity with accreditation processes and performance metrics.

 

The candidate should have experience navigating state higher education systems, an appreciation for UCM’s mission and the ability to promote innovative technologies and data-driven decision-making.

 

Required qualifications include a minimum of four years in a dean or equivalent position, a record of scholarship and teaching qualifying for tenure and an earned doctorate or terminal degree.

 

Candidates must submit applications online at https://jobs.ucmo.edu, position number 997909. Applications should include a cover letter addressing the qualifications, a curriculum vitae and a list of at least five references with full contact information. References will not be contacted without the candidate's explicit permission.

 

The position will remain open until filled; however, applications received by June 17, 2024, will be given priority consideration. The anticipated start date for this position is January 1, 2025.

 

For detailed information about the position, please contact ProvostSearch@ucmo.edu or visit the search webpage at https://www.ucmo.edu/academics/office-of-the-provost-chief-learning-officer/provost-position/index.php.