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Central Washington University, located in Ellensburg, Washington is launching the search for its next Dean of the College of Business. Joining a dedicated team of faculty, staff, and students, the new Dean will play a key role fostering student success, creating business partnerships and innovative programs, and supporting CWU’s mission to expand educational access and create a legacy of learning.

Central has a long history of preparing graduates for successful careers in an ever-changing world. Beginning in 1891 as a teachers’ college (Washington State Normal School), Central has continued its commitment to scholarship, public service, and student success.  Over the last 125 years, Central has grown from 50 students to approximately 8,300 students at combined campus locations, with an additional 16,500 enrolled through dual enrollment and high school partnerships across the state.

The College of Business empowers over 1,400 undergraduate students and nearly 50 graduate students through innovative programs and hands-on learning in a dynamic environment that blends academic rigor with real-world application. Academic departments are Accounting, Economics, Finance and Supply Chain Management, and Management and Marketing, offering 14 degree pathways and specializations (BSBA, BS, MS, and MBA, as well as minors and certificates). Three majors are available fully online, and several minors are available fully online.  The College awarded 341 degrees in 2025.

CB is fully accredited through AACSB and just successfully completed the current review cycle in 2025. The College of Business recently launched its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan.  It centers on three major initiatives that will shape the College’s future: educating the whole person; advancing sustainability; and introducing the MBA program. Underpinning all of these is a deep dedication to thought leadership in economic and social mobility, and the power of applied learning to drive social impact.

The University seeks a Dean for the College of Business who will:

• Support Responsive and Relevant Programs.
• Foster a Culture of Faculty and Staff Success.
• Expand Interdisciplinary Connections.
• Create Community, Business and Industry Partnerships.
• Strengthen Student Success.
• Steward College Resources.
• Elevate Visibility and Enhance External Resources.

Academic Search is assisting Central Washington University in this search. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be held in strict confidence.

Applicants should submit three separate PDF documents to: CWUCBDEAN@academicsearch.org: (1) A cover letter which clearly summarizes how the applicant addresses each of the listed required qualifications, preferred qualifications (as applicable), and leadership agenda/characteristics, (2) a current curriculum vitae (CV) that includes responsibilities and accomplishments, as well as scholarly achievements, and (3) names and contact information for five references with a note indicating the relationship to the applicant. (References will not be contacted without permission.)

The position will remain open until filled, with full consideration given to applications received by February 28, 2026.

Nominators and prospective candidates may arrange a confidential discussion about this opportunity with Stacey Morgan Foster, JD, senior consultant, at stacey.foster@academicsearch.org.

If submitting a nomination, please include the nominee’s full name, position, institution/organization, and email address. Academic Search will notify people of their nomination, provide details about the position, and encourage them to apply. Academic Search will not disclose the nominator.

Compensation and Benefits

Classification range: $155,784 to $249,255

Anticipated hiring range: $195,000 to $235,000