Description

Michigan State University (MSU) seeks a visionary, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as the next Dean of its College of Engineering (COE). Applications, nominations, and expressions of interest are invited.

Michigan State is the nation's premier land-grant university and one of the top research universities in the world. As a member of both the Association of American Universities (AAU) and the Big Ten Academic Alliance, MSU is nationally recognized for its academic excellence, impactful research, and global outreach. It is also known for its Spartan grit and resilience. MSU is stronger because of its community, which includes more than 51,000 students, 5,600 faculty and staff, and a network of over half a million living alumni who are extremely loyal supporters and cheerleaders for the university. The Dean will join MSU and its new leadership to build upon its existing strengths and propel it to new heights.

With a rich history dating back to 1888, the MSU COE is one of the oldest and most sought-after academic options at Michigan State, boasting more than 6,800 students, 12 undergraduate degrees, 11 graduate degrees, and growing.Their bright and industrious students are taught by a world-class academic team that includes 341 faculty acrosseight departments and two interdisciplinary programs with a focus on developing innovative engineers and computer scientists who solve complex transdisciplinary problems and drive economic development, both locally and globally.

The college, home to innovative research, an international community of scientists and scholars, and $70.9 million in annual research expenditures, continues to be recognized as an international leader in composites, coatings, biometrics, and pattern recognition.

MSU's COE also strives to focus on inclusive excellence by providing a place where faculty, students, and staff experience and contribute to a community that embraces and celebrates every member. Through collective efforts, it aims to offer each individual a supportive, positive, and safe environment that results in a place for all to belong and thrive.

The Dean of MSU's COE serves as the chief academic officer and executive of the college, reporting to the provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. The Dean provides leadership and is responsible for all matters relating to the administration of the college, including academic programs, personnel, budgets, alumni engagement, fundraising, and industry relations. The Dean collaborates closely with the eighteen deans across MSU on numerous joint programs and initiatives, advancing the University's priorities.

The next dean will shape and execute a bold, forward-looking vision aligned with the institution's strategic plan, MSU 2030: Excellence and Global Impact, advancing priorities in interdisciplinary collaboration, research prominence, student success, and expanding the university's global reputation. Key opportunities include leading transformative initiatives such as strengthening MSU's research profile toward its $1 billion goal, modernizing curricula to prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving workforce, and fostering innovation in teaching and learning. A central component of this vision will be leveraging the Engineering and Digital Innovation Center (EDI Center) as a catalyst for interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships, and experiential learning.

The Dean will also play a critical role in fundraising and external engagement, contributing to MSU's $4 billion campaign and building partnerships with alumni, industry, and donors. Additionally, the Dean will provide strategic leadership as MSU implements a new budget model in FY27-FY28, ensuring resources are aligned with mission-critical priorities and enrollment strategies. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a college with a proud legacy, a collaborative culture, and a commitment to addressing society's most pressing challenges through engineering solutions.

The ideal candidate will hold a doctoral degree and possess a record of excellence in teaching and research suitable for a tenured appointment at the rank of professor. They will bring proven academic leadership experience and a collaborative approach to setting and achieving strategic goals. The next dean must demonstrate strong financial acumen, a commitment to shared governance, and the ability to engage faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, and industry partners. Essential qualities include fostering an inclusive environment where all are valued, advancing student success, and supporting world-class research and teaching. The Dean will serve as a compelling public face of the college, building external relationships and articulating a clear vision, while working collaboratively across MSU to further institutional priorities.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest that addresses the themes outlined in the leadership profile and how your experience has aligned with COE's core values.

WittKieffer is assisting Michigan State University in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by March 9th, 2026. Nominations, inquiries, and applications can be directed to: Jessica Herrington, Suzanne Teer, and Natalie Song at MSUEngineeringDean@WittKieffer.com

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