The University of Texas at Tyler invites nominations, applications, and expressions of interest in its search for the next Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students (VPSA).
The University of Texas at Tyler, commonly known as UT Tyler, is a public research university and a member of the University of Texas System. Founded in 1971 as Tyler State College, it became part of the UT System in 1979 and expanded to a full four-year institution in 1998. UT Tyler merged with the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler in 2021, creating a unified institution that includes a medical school, the first in East Texas
UT Tyler now enrolls approximately 11,600 students, marking the largest enrollment in the institution’s history as of Fall 2025. The university offers more than 90 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across a broad array of colleges and schools, including Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering, Health Professions, Nursing, Pharmacy, the School of Medicine, Honors College, and a Graduate School.
The main campus spans 320 acres in Tyler, with additional campus locations in Longview, Palestine, Houston, and expanded health science and medical facilities. UT Tyler is classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity, the highest Carnegie designation in East Texas, with annual research expenditures exceeding $30 million. The university is recognized for accessibility and student support, with a student-faculty ratio of approximately 17:1 and an acceptance rate of 94 percent.
UT Tyler is eager to welcome a collaborative, energetic, and strategic leader as its next VPSA. Reporting to President Julie Philley, MD., and serving as a member of the President's leadership team, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students will provide vision, leadership and strategic direction for a $10 million operating budget and a portfolio of 41 staff and 123 student employees across all areas of student life including campus activities, student organizations, residence life, wellness, leadership development, and judicial affairs.
As a member of an ambitious and student-focused leadership team, the VPSA will contribute meaningfully to institutional strategy while ensuring that student affairs is viewed as a central partner in the life of the university. The VPSA will work closely with colleagues across the institution and play a key role in shaping a student affairs operation that is dynamic, connected, and fully aligned with the university’s mission and priorities. This role represents an exceptional opportunity for a student affairs professional to help build momentum around campus life, strengthen connections among students, and advance a vibrant, engaging, and purpose-driven student experience. The VPSA will help elevate student success and foster high-impact experiences that support persistence, development, and connection.
The successful candidate will be a seasoned leader with the ability to envision what student affairs can become at a growing research university. This individual will demonstrate strong administrative, financial, and managerial skills; an understanding of contemporary student affairs challenges and opportunities; and a commitment to collaboration, relationship-building, and creative problem-solving. The VPSA will bring enthusiasm, sound judgment, and strategic thinking to the work of strengthening campus community and enhancing the overall student experience.
Applications should include, as two separate documents, a CV/resume, and a letter of interest. Please submit applications through the WittKieffer Candidate Portal using the buttons above. For full consideration, all materials should be received by May 11th.
Please direct inquiries and nominations to the WittKieffer consultants assisting the University of Texas at Tyler with this recruitment:
Mercedes Chacon Vance and Jenna Brumleve
The University of Texas at Tyler is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.