College of Nursing - Dean

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has engaged the executive search firm Isaacson, Miller to assist in the search. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately. To be assured of full consideration, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Dean, College of Nursing materials should be submitted by February 1, 2026, and include a cover letter and CV/Resume via the Isaacson, Miller website.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville seeks a visionary leader to serve as Dean of the College of Nursing.

Institutional Context:
As Tennessee’s flagship public institution and a land-grant university with Carnegie Research 1 “Very High Research Activity” and “Community Engaged” designations, UT Knoxville stands at the forefront of innovation, discovery, and service. The College of Nursing plays a pivotal role in this mission, uniquely positioned to enrich lives and transform communities through excellence in education, research, and practice.

The College is thriving with record student enrollment, nationally ranked academic programs, NCLEX pass rates consistently exceeding state and national averages, and a rapidly advancing research enterprise. With 1,380 students enrolled across BSN, PhD, DNP, and graduate certificate programs and $7.9 million in annual external research funding, the College drives groundbreaking studies that advance nursing science and improve health outcomes locally and globally.

This momentum is further supported by the state-of-the-art, 117,000-square-foot UT Medical Nursing Building—a hub for collaboration, innovation, and student success.

The next Dean will bring a clear vision for the future of healthcare and higher education, championing innovation and technology to amplify impact across all mission areas. This leader will be an exceptional communicator and relationship builder, engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders. To fulfill accreditation requirements, the Dean must be a registered nurse with a graduate degree in nursing and an earned doctorate, hold current or eligible RN licensure in Tennessee, and demonstrate scholarly distinction consistent with the expectations for a full professor.

Significant experience in nursing leadership, education, practice, and research is expected.

To be considered, candidates must meet the following qualifications: a registered nurse with a graduate degree in nursing and an earned doctorate; current or eligible RN licensure in Tennessee; and scholarly distinction consistent with the expectations for a full professor. Significant experience in nursing leadership, education, practice, and research is expected.