Associate Dean - STEM

Summary of Position

Youngstown State University invites applications and nominations for the position of Associate Dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM). This is an opportunity for a collaborative academic leader to help guide a complex, multi-site STEM enterprise through its next phase of innovation, enrollment momentum, and workforce alignment. The Associate Dean will serve as the Dean's principal partner for internal operations and academic excellence, enabling expanded external engagement and impact across the region.

Founded in 1908, Youngstown State (YSU) is a comprehensive public institution and an anchor for Northeast Ohio's educational and economic vitality. The University enrolls approximately 12,000 students, has achieved back-to-back enrollment growth through Fall 2025, and maintains an 18:1 student-faculty ratio. YSU is ranked #99 Regional Universities in the Midwest and #35 Top Public Schools. With accessible tuition and expanding online, graduate, and international enrollment, YSU continues to advance its mission of affordability, access, and student success.

Established in 2007, the College of STEM is Ohio's first and only dedicated STEM college, spanning 12 buildings across four locations and serving roughly 3,000 students. The College offers associate, bachelor's, master's, Ph.D. and workforce-aligned programs, engages undergraduates directly in research, and operates the Excellence Training Center (ETC) as a hub for advanced manufacturing, engineering technology, and industry training. YSU is also advancing a new Steubenville site, prioritized by the state to deliver career-aligned pathways beginning as early as 2026, further extending the College's footprint and mission.

The Associate Dean will lead internal operations, drive student success strategies in recruitment and retention, and strengthen workforce education through employer partnerships, internships, co-ops, and program expansion at new and existing sites. The role also includes facilitating faculty research and grant development, nurturing interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting the launch and scale of innovative centers and academic offerings, positioning the YSU College of STEM as a statewide leader in applied research, innovation, and workforce alignment.

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline and tenure at the rank of Associate Professor or higher (with Full Professor preferred), plus three or more years of college-level teaching and a record of advising, mentoring, scholarly productivity, and/or externally funded work. The College values authentic, approachable, collaborative leadership, outstanding communication, equitable resource allocation, and skillful cultural stewardship, sustaining a well-known climate of trust and shared governance.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile.

Witt Kieffer is assisting Youngstown State University in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by March 2, 2026. Application should be submitted through

Youngstown State University's jobs site.

Nominations, and inquiries can be directed to Lauren Bruce-Stets and Jess Cummings at

Position Information

Assists in planning, administering, and supervising operational and financial activities. Facilitates and/or writes annual reports or other documents. Assumes daily managerial responsibilities. Oversees student issues and/or concerns; manages and assists with freshman orientation, student registration, and career and academic advisement activities; assists with recruitment, retention, and publicity; coordinates all print publications and digital media. Maintains and builds upon current quantitative and qualitative goals and participates in the College's enrollment management program, including its retention efforts.

Represents the dean and/or College at various internal and external functions when appropriate and as requested. Oversees and supervises special projects as assigned.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities :

Provides administrative and academic leadership in support of the Dean. Assists in advancing the mission, vision, and strategic goals of the College by overseeing day-to-day operations, collaborating on strategic initiatives, and supporting faculty, staff, and students. Ensures that policies, procedures, and practices align with university standards, accreditation requirements, and the priorities of the College.

Provides administrative support to the Dean in working with faculty, staff, students, and external constituents.

Supervises assigned staff, evaluates staffing needs, assigns and reviews work, and establishes time frames for completion of tasks.

Trains and orients new employees; approves or disapproves leave requests; interviews and recommends candidates for hire; evaluates employee work…