Bethune-Cookman University invites nominations and applications for the position of President. As one of the nation’s most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Bethune-Cookman University has been defined by its enduring commitment to student success, innovation in academics, and its intimate linkages with and service to its community, the state of Florida, and the nation. The University was founded 115 years ago by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, a world-renowned educator, pioneer and activist. In July 2022, a statue commemorating Dr. Bethune was unveiled at the U.S. Capitol’s Statuary Hall to represent the State of Florida, making her the first Black person selected by a state to receive this distinction.
Located in the Atlantic coast city of Daytona Beach, Florida, Bethune-Cookman University is known for its small-university community feel and its HBCU sensibility, for its strong academics and exceptional, personalized teaching, and for carrying forward the legacy of Dr. Bethune. That legacy includes a dedication to service and an undying commitment to building a vision for the future, then applying creativity, initiative and resilience to bring success both in college and in the world beyond. Offering 37 undergraduate degrees and 8 graduate degrees through four academic Colleges: Business & Entrepreneurship; Arts and Humanities; Nursing and Health Sciences; Science, Engineering & Mathematics, the academic reputation of the University and considerable achievements of its alumni continue to attract students from across the state of Florida, nationally and abroad. Current enrollment is 2,628 undergraduate and 99 graduate students.
Reporting to the Board of Trustees and serving as the leader and chief executive officer of Bethune-Cookman University, the President exercises broad general management responsibilities for all aspects of the University’s academic, student, financial, development, and administrative operations. Bethune-Cookman University seeks an innovative, decisive, strategic, and energetic leader with a deep commitment to the value and importance of higher education, who will embrace the history and legacy of University while leading its growth, strengthening its academic offerings, enhancing its reputation, and assuring its financial stability.
Ideally, the President will be a goal-oriented leader who possesses strong conceptual, strategic, communication, financial and business acumen; well-developed analytical and synthesizing skills, and first-hand experience in leading and managing a complex organization. Proven financial, strategic planning, and implementation skills are required. A terminal degree or professional leadership achievements and experiences that demonstrate preparedness to lead an institution of higher learning are required. Other requirements include a demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate and relate well to others, an inclusive and collaborative management style, experience building a strong leadership team, and a proven track record of success in building and cultivating financial support through fundraising and other strategies for revenue growth.
Bethune-Cookman University has retained Diversified Search to assist in this recruitment. Applications should be submitted, in confidence, using DSG’s candidate portal here or via email to [email protected]. Please send all nominations or inquiries to [email protected]. This is a full-time position that will be performed on site in Florida. Salary commensurate with experience with a generous benefits package.
The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, retaliation, marital status, religion or disability, or any other applicable local, state or federal regulation. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities, equal employment opportunity and Title IX matters should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at 386-481-2049. The university reserves the right to modify job descriptions at any time in its attempts to improve the operations of the university