Position Opening
Director, School of Public Affairs
College of Public Programs
Arizona State University, with a student population of approximately 65,000, invites nominations and applications of an established academic for the position of Director of the School of Public Affairs, with a term commencing July 1, 2010. The School of Public Affairs (spa.asu.edu) offers BA and BS degrees in Urban and Metropolitan Studies, Master degrees in Public Administration and Public Policy, and a Ph.D. in Public Administration. Dedicated to advancing excellence in urban governance, faculty in the School direct the Centers in Urban Innovation and Policy Informatics, as well as the University Design Consortium (associated with Sichuan University in China), and have strong links to the Morrison Institute for Public Policy. In addition, the School is the home of the Alliance for Innovation (in partnership with ICMA and the Innovation Group) and the Bob Ramsey Executive Education Program. One of four schools in the College of Public Programs (copp.asu.edu), the School of Public Affairs consists of a multi-disciplinary faculty dedicated to research and to improving student abilities to contribute to a complex urban governance system. The School’s national ranking in many management and policy fields is recognition of its success in these areas. It is a vibrant community of active scholars, committed to excellence in education, located at the ASU Downtown Phoenix campus, home to 7500 students, and close to many government and nonprofit partners.
Under President Michael Crow’s leadership, ASU has undergone profound institutional transformation. The University is dedicated to utilizing its strengths to address the world’s problems. (http://www.asuchallenges.com/). President Crow has also instituted a progressive plan for access and financial aid, and is intent on increasing excellence in all realms. The School of Public Affairs and the College of Public Programs are important parts of the University’s change agenda.
Applicants for director will also be considered for the Lattie and Elva Coor Chair, held by the present director, Robert Denhardt. Lattie Coor is ASU President Emeritus and is on the faculty of the School of Public Affairs. The Director joins the leadership team of the College of Public Programs, has general executive responsibility for all aspects of the School’s activities, and is accountable on all matters to the faculty and the Dean of the College of Public Programs. ASU actively seeks diversity among applicants and promotes a diverse workforce.
A demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching; accomplishment and innovation in scholarship, administration, professional work, and community engagement; commitment to diversity and student success are essential. Interest in undergraduate as well as graduate education is required. The School is likely to grow significantly in the next five years, and the new director should be enthusiastic about leading such growth. The successful candidate will be able to work in and be committed to a multicultural academic and community environment.
Desired Qualifications-
A Ph.D. in Public Administration, Public Policy or an allied field is required. Present faculty rank of full professor is desirable, although associate professors may also be considered.
The Director’s primary responsibility is to create an environment in which:
a. The University’s mission is supported and advanced.
b. Faculty hiring, promotion and tenure are carried out at the highest standards of excellence.
c. The curriculum is top-quality, innovative, and responsive to the needs of students and the community.
d. Relationships with the community are vibrant.
e. Budgetary decision-making and execution are driven by principle, consultation, and accountability.
f. Faculty aspirations for additional external funding are fully supported.
g. The academic profile of the School of Public Affairs at ASU, in the community, in the profession, and nationally is advanced.
h. Academic connections with other units in the College of Public Programs and across the University are encouraged and enhanced.
The Director of the School of Public Affairs is appointed by the Executive Vice President and Provost of Arizona State University, acting upon the recommendation of the School’s faculty and the Dean of the College of Public Programs. Salary is commensurate with qualifications.
Applicants must submit a letter of interest, a Curriculum Vitae, and names and contact information of three professional references. Evaluation of applications will begin on
November 16, 2009, and the 1st of each month thereafter until the position is filled. Please feel free to contact Dean Debra Friedman (debra.friedman@asu.edu) or Search Committee Chair, Dr. Jeffrey Chapman (jeffrey.chapman@asu.edu) with any questions.
Required items may be mailed to:
Dr. Jeffrey Chapman
Search Committee Chair
Attention: Victoria Rutherford
Office of the University Vice President and Dean
411 N. Central Avenue, Suite 650
Phoenix, AZ 85004-0686
Or may be sent electronically to Victoria.Rutherford@asu.edu.
For more information about Arizona State University and the School of Public Affairs, please see http://spa.asu.edu.
Arizona State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
