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Athens State University (Athens State) invites applications and nominations for its inaugural Vice President for Enrollment Management (VPEM). This is a significant leadership opportunity at a distinctive institution, one of the only universities in the nation dedicated exclusively to degree completion for transfer students and adult learners.

Reporting directly to the President, the VPEM will serve as a key member of the President’s Cabinet. Dr. Wehlburg has articulated a clear and compelling enrollment imperative: increase enrollment for both transfer students and adult learners. In Alabama alone, more than 500,000 individuals have some college credit but no credential and there are 24 community colleges whose students need a direct pipeline to a bachelor’s degree. Athens State exists to help them finish what they started. The VPEM will be the architect of the enrollment strategy that makes that mission a reality.

The VPEM will provide comprehensive, integrated leadership for recruitment, admissions, financial aid, and related enrollment functions. The successful candidate will bring a sophisticated understanding of the transfer student experience, a commitment to access and affordability, and a proven record of building enrollment pipelines through data, relationship-building, and innovation.

Athens State University holds a singular place in Alabama’s higher education landscape. Founded in 1822 as the Athens Female Academy, the institution is the oldest in the state and one of the few universities in the nation dedicated exclusively to transfer students and adult learners. Athens State University offers degrees at the undergraduate level and select graduate programs. Today, Athens State is comprised of three University Colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education, each designed to produce career-ready graduates. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor’s and master’s degrees, in addition to several programmatic and specialized accreditations.

Athens is one of Alabama’s most dynamic and fastest-growing communities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Athens saw a 5.3% population increase from 2023 to 2024, reaching 32,587, making it the second-fastest-growing city in Alabama among cities with at least 10,000 residents. Quality of life, a location convenient to the burgeoning Huntsville economy, and a locally business-friendly climate have all contributed to the city’s surge in growth.

Academic Search is assisting Athens State University in this search. To apply, applicants should visit the following link: https://www.academicsearch.org/AthensVPEMApply. Applications should consist of a substantive cover letter addressing the qualifications and expectations in the position profile and a curriculum vitae, both submitted as PDFs. A list of professional references will be required later in the process. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled; however, those received by August 7, 2026, can be assured full consideration.

Nominations and expressions of interest can be submitted in confidence to AthensVPEM@academicsearch.org.

To learn more about this opportunity and discuss your qualifications and interest, potential applicants are encouraged to send a copy of their curriculum vitae to AthensVPEM@academicsearch.org for review by the Managing Director, Dr. Nancy Crimmin.

More information can be found on the Academic Search webpage. The salary range for this position is $170,000.00 – $190,000.00. Benefits information is available here.

Athens State University, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. Athens State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, disability, religion, genetic information, or veteran status in employment, or admissions to or participation in educational programs and activities. Inquiries or concerns may be addressed to the Office of Human Resources, 300 N. Beaty St., Athens, AL 35611, 256-233-8124.