The University of Mary, Bismarck, North Dakota, seeks an innovative and dynamic educational leader to serve as its next President. This President will continue the growth that the institution has enjoyed in its fifty years of existence with the commitment to take the University to new levels of achievement. Sr. Thomas Welder, President for 31 years will be retiring June 2009.
The University of Mary was established in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery of the Roman Catholic faith. The university is shaped by its Benedictine heritage and committed to the Benedictine values: community, hospitality, prayer, respect, service and moderation. It exists to serve the religious, academic and cultural needs of the people of this region and beyond.
As America’s Leadership University, the University of Mary envisions a Christian learning community that prepares its students to become leaders through service. The university is committed to providing leadership experiences for every student, to include competence mastery in their profession, decision making skills based on Benedictine values and service to others as they prepare to lead in their professional, church, civic and global communities.
Currently enrolling approximately 2800 students, the university offers 45 undergraduate degrees, 6 graduate degrees and 1 doctoral program and has 17 locations outside of the main campus in Bismarck, ND. The University has experienced enrollment growth due to the addition of on-line and distance education opportunities. More than 260 full time and 275 part-time people are employed at the University, which has an annual operating budget of just over $38 million.
The University seeks a President with proven leadership ability, known integrity and sound judgment. Candidates must have the ability and passion to articulate the importance and value of preparing students in the professions with a strong liberal arts base, and to support the Benedictine legacy and mission of its founders and sponsors, the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. The President should possess the energy and vision to lead the institution toward its goal of excellence in the Christian, Catholic and Benedictine tradition.
The ideal candidate should be a visionary and dynamic leader with recognized academic credentials and a track record of successful leadership. An earned doctorate from an accredited college or university is preferred. A masters degree from an accredited college or university is required. Other qualifications required are: a collaborative and inclusive management style; the ability to lead and engage in fund raising and marketing; keen judgment relating to financial management; the ability to lead in strategic planning and implementation of the plan; the capacity to communicate effectively with all stakeholders at all levels not only within the University but with external constituencies as well; the ability to listen closely, make decisions firmly, and communicate those decisions clearly and effectively. Preference will be given to a candidate who can demonstrate that she or he is a knowledgeable, committed, active, practicing member of the Roman Catholic faith.
Applications should consist of a letter of interest that reflects the desired attributes, a resume, and a list of five references. In addition, candidates are to include their educational philosophy and why they should be considered in terms of interest and skills. Nominations and expressions of interest will be treated in confidence and should be sent electronically to: Sr. Rosanne Zastoupil, Director of Human Resources, University of Mary, Bismarck, ND 58504; email address: rzastoup@umary.edu. (Telephone: 701-355-8245). The University of Mary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Nominations and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. However, to ensure full consideration, individuals should submit a complete application package prior to October 31, 2008.
POSITION PROFILE >>
