Illinois Institute of Technology seeks a provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, who is a collaborative leader with a deep commitment to excellence in research and teaching, an exceptional student experience, and innovative, inclusive institutional management.
Founded in 1890, Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) was born different. It was built on the promise set forth in Minister Frank Wakeley Gunsaulus’s “Million Dollar Sermon” to provide access to higher education for students from all different backgrounds and to make a difference in the world through technology-oriented education. This guiding mission and purpose—where students, including those underrepresented in technology, could prepare for meaningful roles in a changing industrial society and achieve professional and economic advancement—remains relevant today. Illinois Tech changes the course of students’ lives and puts a strong emphasis on social mobility. Graduates attain some of Chicago’s and the nation’s highest post-college earnings: Illinois Tech is #2 in the nation for upward mobility among highly selective private colleges (Opportunity Insights 2024) and the New York Times. U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, and Fiske Guide to Colleges have all named Illinois Tech an educational best value.
As Chicago’s tech university and one of the 21 institutions that comprise the Association of Independent Technological Universities, Illinois Tech enrolls more than 3,100 undergraduate and approximately 5,300 graduate and professional students in seven colleges attuned to the tech sector and the needs of the global economy. The campus community has a distinctly global character, with one-third of students hailing from beyond the United States. Students are motivated and hardworking, and supported by a dedicated faculty of more than 430 scholars deeply committed to teaching. Illinois Tech’s new research award funding eclipsed $50 million, a 50% increase over FY23. In FY24, research expenditures reached $40 million, which is reflective of the rapidly growing research and developmental activities across Illinois Tech’s campuses. Each year many faculty are awarded the highest honors in their fields.
Illinois Tech seeks in its next provost an inspirational and strategic leader who will engage authentically with the executive leadership team, faculty, students, staff, alumni, and the broader Chicago community. The successful candidate will have the experience, skills, and knowledge to enhance the university’s standing and reputation, and, in close collaboration with the Office of the President, lead the development of the university’s 2026–2031 strategic plan. The provost will be expected to oversee the growth, professional development, and diversification of Illinois Tech’s faculty to build its academic excellence. The successful candidate must have the intellectual vitality, collegial and transparent leadership style, and operational skills to lead within a complex technology- and innovation-focused institution. As the campus’s chief academic leader, the provost should exhibit a passion for multidisciplinary engagement and an exceptional ability to bring together faculty from across the university to leverage Illinois Tech’s strengths and to forge new, innovative, and collaborative initiatives, research, and educational opportunities. The provost must also work to foster inclusivity and belonging; advocate effectively on behalf of the faculty, staff and students; and strengthen a culture of academic excellence, service to the community, and student success. A Ph.D. or earned terminal degree is required along with the experience and credentials to merit appointment as a tenured member of the Illinois Institute of Technology faculty. Prior experience at the level of provost, dean, vice/associate provost, or equivalent is preferred.
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or résumé, and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile linked at the bottom of this page.
WittKieffer is assisting Illinois Institute of Technology in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by March 28, 2025.
Application materials should be submitted to [email protected].
Nominations and inquiries can be directed to: Sandra Chu, Bree Liddell, and Suzanne Teer.
Compensation range: $400,000-$450,000
Benefits: IIT’s commitment to employee well-being is reflected in their competitive benefits package located here: https://www.iit.edu/hr/benefits