Dean College of Nursing and Health Professions

The University of Southern Maine invites applications and nominations for the inaugural Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions (CNHP). This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a visionary, collaborative, and accomplished academic leader to shape and lead a newly established college at a pivotal moment of growth and impact.

Founded in 1878, University of Southern Maine (USM) is a learning-centered, comprehensive public university serving southern Maine and the broader New England region. With campuses in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, as well as a robust online presence, USM enrolls a diverse student population and is deeply connected to the communities it serves. As part of the University of Maine System, USM is committed to challenging students academically in a supportive, student-focused environment while preparing them to achieve their educational, professional, and personal goals.

As Maine’s public comprehensive research university, USM emphasizes hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. The University prepares broadly educated graduates for leadership and global citizenship while advancing applied research, creative activity, and public service aligned with regional and statewide priorities.

USM offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across the arts and sciences, business, education, nursing and health professions, public service, and applied research fields. Many programs are available online or in flexible formats, supporting access for learners at all stages of life. With a strong commitment to academic quality, accredited programs, and personalized learning, USM plays a vital role in strengthening Maine’s workforce, economy, and civic life while advancing opportunity in an inclusive and diverse society.

The College of Nursing and Health Professions brings together nationally accredited, high-impact programs in Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Exercise, Health, and Sport Sciences. Built on the strong foundation of long-standing, respected academic units, the new College is designed to elevate USM’s leadership and expertise in health professions education, research, and workforce development across Maine and the region.

Reporting to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions serves as the chief academic and administrative officer of the College. As the inaugural Dean, the successful candidate will articulate and advance a compelling vision for the College, lead strategic growth and innovation, and elevate the College’s regional and national profile.

The Dean will provide inspirational and innovative leadership during a transformative period, building a cohesive college structure while honoring the strengths, identities, and accreditation requirements of each program. The role includes a significant external-facing leadership component, with opportunities to influence health policy, workforce strategy, and academic–practice partnerships across Maine and within the University of Maine System.

• Provide strategic, academic, and administrative leadership for the College of Nursing and Health Professions, including Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Exercise, Health, and Sport Sciences.
• Serve as Chief Nurse Administrator for the University, ensuring excellence, compliance, and innovation across undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.
• Advance interdisciplinary and interprofessional education, including expanded use of simulation, telehealth, and collaborative practice models.
• Strengthen and expand academic–practice partnerships with healthcare systems, community organizations, government agencies, and professional organizations.
• Champion faculty success through recruitment, mentorship, promotion and tenure support, and the advancement of research and scholarly productivity.
• Lead accreditation and continuous quality improvement efforts across all programs (e.g., CCNE, ACOTE, CAATE, CAAHEP).
• Prom…