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Associate Dean – Belcher College of Fine & Performing Arts

Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC

  1. Salary Not stated by the employer
  2. Employer Western Carolina University
  3. Location Cullowhee, NC
  4. Workplace On site
  5. Role Dean
  6. Posted Sep 3, 2026
  7. Reference pa-35369
Associate Dean – Belcher College of Fine & Performing Arts at Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC
Internal Recruitment Only: This position is open only to current employees of Western Carolina University. Only internal candidates will be considered for this position. Applications from individuals who are not current WCU employees will not be considered.

The Associate Dean serves as a senior academic and administrative leader of the Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts and works collaboratively with the Dean, School Directors, faculty, staff, students, and university partners to advance the College’s mission and strategic priorities.

As a member of the College Leadership Team, the Associate Dean provides leadership and coordination for core college-wide academic functions, including curriculum, assessment and continuous improvement, student academic matters, academic policy implementation, and designated faculty-governance processes. The Associate Dean advises and assists the Dean on academic and administrative matters, represents the College in university-level activities, and serves as the Dean’s designee when appropriate.

In addition to these standing responsibilities, the Associate Dean maintains a portfolio of strategic and administrative initiatives established collaboratively with the Dean. This portfolio may evolve over time in response to College priorities and may reflect the Associate Dean’s particular experience, expertise, and professional interests. Areas of leadership may include student success and enrollment, accreditation and program review, faculty development, interdisciplinary initiatives, college-wide academic programs, strategic planning, community engagement, or other priorities aligned with the College’s mission.

The Associate Dean maintains an active faculty role through teaching, scholarly or creative activity, and professional service appropriate to rank and discipline.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to represent the College effectively across a variety of constituencies.
  • Demonstrated skill in diplomacy and conflict management, including the ability to navigate appropriately between transparency and confidentiality.
  • Demonstrated ability to provide collaborative leadership and foster productive relationships among faculty, staff, students, and university partners.
  • Knowledge of higher education policies and academic-affairs functions, including curriculum, assessment, academic program administration, student academic matters, and shared governance.
  • Ability to interpret and consistently apply institutional policies and procedures while exercising sound judgment in complex or sensitive academic matters.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage recurring responsibilities while responding effectively to emerging priorities.
  • Ability to lead through collaboration and influence in an environment characterized by multiple disciplines, perspectives, and organizational priorities.
  • Demonstrated commitment to student success, academic quality, shared governance, and a collegial and inclusive academic environment.
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