Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA), a member of the University of Texas System, announces its search for the next Dean of the Nelson Rusche College of Business (RCOB). The University seeks nominations and applications for an experienced, dynamic, and visionary leader that can usher the College into a new era of success.
With a focus on collaboration and transparency, the Dean is the chief academic officer for the College. Reporting to the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and serving on the Deans’ Council, the Dean is responsible for the College’s strategic planning processes, academic program development, accreditation (most recent AACSB reaffirmation completed in 2024), student and faculty recruitment and retention, and fundraising. Furthermore, the Dean directs, oversees, and actively participates in fulfilling the College’s mission, vision, and values. By supervising personnel, securing resources, representing and promoting the College, and administering budgets, the Dean supports the College’s teaching, research, and external engagement efforts.
The Rusche College of Business is a student-centered college of business with a distinct and broadly shared mission. The College is a valued community and industry partner and is an integral part of the University’s mission. With an emphasis on experiential learning and student professional development, the College and its constituents embrace its mission. The RCOB enrolls approximately 1,400 undergraduate students and 150 graduate students (100 MBA and 50 MPA). Early fall 2025 enrollment figures signal an increase in headcount and semester credit hour generation. The College offers 13 undergraduate majors, two graduate degrees, and three graduate certificates. Of the College’s 51 full-time faculty, 42 are tenured or on the tenure track. In addition, there are 18 full-time staff members across the College, including a dedicated Office of Student Services.
SFA is a regional comprehensive university located in the quaint and historic city of Nacogdoches, Texas. The city claims the title of “oldest town in Texas” and is nestled in the East Texas Piney Woods region. Located 140 miles northeast of Houston and 165 miles southeast of Dallas, Nacogdoches has a population of 33,000 residents and is a wonderful place to call home. SFA is a mid-sized university with a headcount consistently falling in the 11,000 – 13,000 range. The University’s student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1 and the average class size is 27 students. SFA continues to have a strong undergraduate emphasis. However, growth in master’s and doctoral degree programs continues to receive significant strategic attention.
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a letter of interest addressing the themes in the profile and a CV or resume. WittKieffer is assisting Stephen F. Austin State University in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by August 19, 2025. Application materials should be submitted to WittKieffer’s candidate portal using the buttons below. Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Ryan Crawford and Randi Miller at [email protected].