Open Searches

Wayne State invites inquiries, applications, and nominations for Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), who is the senior administrative officer representing academic affairs and reports directly to the President. S/he is charged with academic leadership of the College and promotes excellence in teaching and service across all academic programs. The VPAA directs and coordinates all academic activities. For all degree and certificate programs s/he is responsible for ensuring compliance with academic accreditation requirements; advancing scholarly activity; and growing and supporting academic programs. The VPAA works closely with other vice presidents and administrators to support the College mission, vision, and objectives, and to ensure institutional effectiveness. The new VPAA is expected to take office in Spring 2026.

Wayne State has become a leading comprehensive college in Northeast Nebraska, with 15 academic departments within four academic schools and more than 130 career pathways. The newest undergraduate programs include engineering technology, accelerated nursing, and pre-public health. New master’s programs include human performance and wellness management, criminal justice administration, and interdisciplinary studies. Three new certificate programs in the MBA (Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, and Leadership Management) were recently added.

The College serves as a model of success for regional public higher education. Investments in infrastructure and facilities, expanded academic programs and partnerships, a campus-wide approach to recruitment and retention, and a commitment to strategic planning have yielded 28% growth in enrollment during the past six years, soaring to more than 4,500 students. This growth reflects the College’s broad appeal, with approximately 85% of students coming from Nebraska and 15% from out of state, and nearly half identifying as first-generation reflecting our deep commitment to accessibility and opportunity.

Wayne State College is being assisted by Academic Search. For more information about the position, institution, leadership agenda, qualifications, and application process, please download the full position profile from the Academic Search website: https://www.academicsearch.org/open-searches-public/

Confidential discussions may be arranged by contacting Dr. Pamela Balch, Senior Consultant, at pam.balch@academicsearch.org. Please include a copy of your CV to inform the conversation. When submitting a nomination, please send the nominee’s full name, position, institution, and email address to WayneStateVPAA@academicsearch.org.

This position is open until filled, but only applications received by Monday, October 6, can be given full consideration. More information about the institution may be found at https://www.wsc.edu/.

Wayne State College is an equal opportunity institution and prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment.