Overview
With a strong financial stance and energetic growth, the University of Michigan’s (U-M) School of Kinesiology (SoK) seeks a Dean whose growth mindset, and future-forward understanding of the opportunities in the fields of kinesiology, health sciences, and sport management will provide strategic and visionary leadership committed to furthering its existing excellence. Reporting directly to Provost Laurie McCauley (https://provost.umich.edu/about-the-office/laurie-mccauley/), the new Dean will be a collaborative member of a strong team. They will be expected to provide a plan for continued strategic growth and support, capitalizing on the recent construction of the SoK building and the School’s fiscal strength, while also serving as a collaborative partner in advancing overall university success.
Following a decade of successful decanal stewardship, the SoK’s next Dean will be a critical leader for the School, continuing to unify its diverse disciplines, further elevating research for faculty and students, and setting the curricular agenda in collaboration with faculty, while strengthening and sustaining a culture that values every individual and their unique contributions. They will responsibly allocate and utilize resources, making sage fiscal decisions which ensure the quality of the student experience and the excellence of their academic training.
Founded in 1817, U-M has a long history of dedication to public service and engagement. As one of the first public universities in the nation, it has maintained the highest levels of distinction in education, scholarship, and research while remaining broadly accessible to a range of students. It consistently ranks in the top three U.S. Public Universities, serving 67,000 students on three campuses.
The most successful candidates will, at the minimum, hold an earned doctorate in a relevant discipline, with a scholarly record appropriate for appointment as a full professor with tenure. They will have significant experience as an academic leader, with skills suitable for leading a school of the size and complexity of the School of Kinesiology.
WittKieffer is assisting the University of Michigan in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by September 21, 2025. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile at https://apptrkr.com/6394463.
Nominations, inquiries and applications can be directed to:
Zachary A. Smith, Ph.D., Sandra Chu, and Luis Bertot
UMichDeanKinesiology@wittkieffer.com
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic university community committed to teaching and working in a multicultural environment. Potential applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply.
