The Board of Trustees at Nazareth University seeks a visionary, mission-focused, results oriented leader to serve as the institution's 11th president. The ideal candidate will model Nazareth’s values, provide dynamic leadership, and establish strong working relationships with key constituent groups both internally and externally. The next president will collaboratively build and articulate a comprehensive unifying vision to meet the challenges the University and higher education face in the 21st century. The successful candidate will succeed Dr. Beth Paul, who will step down following six years of service.
NAZARETH UNIVERSITY: AN OVERVIEW
For over 100 years, since its founding in 1924 by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Nazareth University has upheld a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and innovation for the betterment of society. Affectionately known as Naz, the university is dedicated to developing the whole person through a student-centered approach that seamlessly integrates nationally recognized academic programs, liberal arts values, and practical career preparation. Over the decades, Nazareth has evolved from its origins as a Roman Catholic women’s college, awarding its first bachelor’s degrees in 1928 and expanding to graduate programs in the 1950s, into a vibrant independent secular co-educational institution.
In 1973, Nazareth transitioned to a lay board of trustees, establishing it as an independent institution dedicated to preserving its founding vision while continually adapting to the changing needs of society. Most recently, in June 2023, Nazareth transitioned from Nazareth College to Nazareth University, symbolizing growth and ambition as it enters its second century. Throughout its history, Nazareth has exemplified resilience, responsiveness, and a steadfast dedication to service, positioning itself to foster success, leadership, and positive change for generations to come.
Distinct Educational Approach
Nazareth fosters integrated learning through both action and reflection, educating the whole person to develop intellectual competence, professional expertise, and strong moral, spiritual, and social values. Our graduates are guided by empathy, committed to equity, and prepared to lead with innovation in today’s world.Nazareth prides itself on the integration of experiential learning. While most institutions have adopted the practice, Nazareth fully embraces hands-on experience and career-readiness as an integral part of the student experience. This foundation enables graduates not only to succeed in their chosen paths but also to lead and transform the communities they join.
Strategic Plan
The new President will have the opportunity to shape a bold vision and strategic direction for Nazareth University, ensuring long-term success and sustainability. This plan will build on Nazareth’s current plan, Innovation in Progress, which centers on five key priorities:
● Future-ready, changemaking graduates
● Equity-minded community and culture
● Distinctive and compelling value
● Sustainable financial future
● Community impact
The new President will play a pivotal role in advancing the institution's mission and impact for years to come.
Mission, Vision, and Identity Statement
Mission
Nazareth fosters integrated learning through action and reflection, educating whole persons who are guided by empathy, committed to equity, and prepared to lead innovation for our time.
Vision
To be a leader of transformative education through action for social justice, preparing and inspiring courageous changemakers for their life's work.
Identity Statement
Nazareth is a learning community dedicated to educating students in a purposeful integration of liberal arts, sciences, visual and performing arts, and professional fields; developing the scholarship of inquiry; and uniting academic work with campus-connected, local, and global experiential learning. Nazareth has an enduring commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, rigorous intellectual education, inclusive empowerment, and nurturing collaborative connections with the community, preparing students for lives of meaning and purpose informed by intellectual, ethical, spiritual, and aesthetic values.
REQUIRED/DESIRED EXPERIENCE
To be an effective leader for the campus community, enhance academic excellence, and ensure long-term financial stability, Nazareth seeks a President with the following:
● A dedication to academic excellence in teaching and research, and the principles of academic freedom and shared governance.
● A passion for relationship building, including engaging with alumni, community, corporate, educational, and governmental leaders, along with a proven track record of fundraising success.
● Deep knowledge of alumni engagement strategies and the ability to galvanize a broad and diverse alumni base to support the University.
● An understanding of the importance of strong enrollment management strategies in a highly competitive environment.
● Sound financial acumen and a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, uncertainty, and financial pressures facing higher education.
● A record of guiding an institution through challenging transitions.
● Experience in navigating financial challenges within a higher education setting or similar environment, including the need to align the operating budget with available resources.
● Demonstrated experience in financial stewardship including the ability to manage complex budgets, debt management, and investment strategies.
● An open communicator and collaborator who fosters a positive work environment, boosts morale, and builds and maintains a strong and cohesive leadership team.
● The ability to build strong working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the Board of Trustees and an appreciation for their role and contribution to the University’s success.
● A presence that inspires trust, demonstrates respect and empathy, and empowers individuals to perform at their highest level and will inspire others to make necessary changes.
● The ability to act with urgency and be a collaborative and decisive leader.
In addition, the ideal candidate will excel in the following critical areas:
● Providing intellectual leadership and integrity to foster institutional confidence and enthusiasm.
● Aligning financial resources with academic and enrollment priorities.
● Fostering innovative and distinctive programs that continue to enhance the value and attraction of a Nazareth University education.
● Articulating Nazareth University’s aspirations in a way that inspires commitment and pride.
● Advocacy for the value of higher education.
● Knowledge of the evolving educational landscape, including the rise of online learning, alternative credentialing, and changing student demographics, with the capacity to lead the institution through these shifts.
● An entrepreneurial mindset and ability to get faculty and staff buy-in to quickly react to new technologies, delivery models, and to meet the demands of today’s student.
● A leader who seeks input broadly, listens to opposing viewpoints, communicates consistently and openly, and can work with multiple, competing stakeholders.
● Demonstrated commitment to and promotion of racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, and socioeconomic diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging among all constituencies.
● A willingness and interest in engaging with students and attending academic, cultural, and athletic events.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Review of candidates will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Application materials should include a letter describing the candidate’s interest in and qualifications for the position and a curriculum vitae and/or resume. Applications should be submitted via the DSG | Storbeck Talent Profile.
To submit nominations or inquiries, please contact the following:
Steve Leo, Managing Director
Vicki Henderson, Senior Associate
DSG | Storbeck
610‐572‐4296