Associate Vice President Student Affairs​/Dean of Students

Position Classification

Regular, full-time, salaried, exempt and benefit-eligible staff position. For more benefit information visit Why Work at UCO?

Position typically works Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm in-office at UCO’s main campus in Edmond, Oklahoma, some nights and weekends may be required.

The Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students (AVP/SA) will serve as a key member of the University’s leadership team, providing vision, direction, and executive oversight for a comprehensive range of student affairs programs and services. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success, the AVP/SA advances the University’s mission by fostering a student-centered environment that supports holistic development, wellness, engagement, and success.

This position plays a pivotal role in strategic planning, policy development, and operational leadership across multiple departments, ensuring excellence in student experience and retention, and alignment with institutional goals. The AVP/SA also serves as the Dean of Students, providing visible leadership and advocacy for students, shaping a campus culture grounded in belonging, integrity, and well-being.

• Provide vision and direction for key areas within Student Affairs, including:
  • Student Engagement
  • Community Engagement
  • Wellness Center
  • Center for Counseling and Well-Being
  • Disability Support Services
  • Student Accountability & Conflict Resolution
• Partner with the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success to develop, implement, and assess divisional strategies, goals, and key performance indicators.
• Lead the planning, coordination, and evaluation of comprehensive programs that enhance students’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
• Manage operational effectiveness and oversee fiscal planning, including administration of Student Activity Fee funds and budgets for assigned departments.
• Provide support and guidance & vision for the Wellness Center facilities, including the UCO Boathouse at Arcadia Lake.

• Serve as Dean of Students, acting as a visible and accessible advocate for students and a resource for addressing student concerns and needs.
• Coordinate the Behavioral Assessment Team (BAT) and ensure effective response to student crises and emergencies.
• Serve as liaison to the Student Government Association (UCOSA) in collaboration with the VP for ESS.
• Promote student leadership, engagement, and community-building through intentional programming and partnerships.

• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, and campus partners to support student success initiatives.
• Develop strategic partnerships with local colleges, universities, agencies, and health providers to enhance wellness and support networks.
• Represent the Division and University to internal and external constituencies, reinforcing UCO’s commitment to student success and well-being.

• Provide counsel and delegated authority to act on behalf of the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success when appropriate.
• Review reports, evaluate program performance, and recommend improvements or policy changes.
• Appoint and supervise department directors and managers, ensuring professional growth and accountability.

• Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited university.
• Seven plus (7+) years of progressive administrative experience in higher education.
• Proven leadership in student affairs administration, including program development, assessment, and financial management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively, uphold ethical standards, and model professionalism, civility, and integrity.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with the ability to evaluate operations, assess outcomes, and drive continuous improvement.

• Doctorate or terminal degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated leadership experience overseeing one or more of the functional areas listed above.
• Knowledge of…