Dean of the School of Social Work

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is accepting nominations and applications for an accomplished and forward-thinking leader to serve as the next Dean of the School of Social Work. This position provides a remarkable opportunity to lead a nationally recognized School committed to advancing social justice, strengthening communities, and improving the lives of individuals and families. The university seeks a visionary leader dedicated to further elevating the School’s performance and advancing the values of the social work profession.

The School of Social Work prepares students to make meaningful contributions in a rapidly evolving profession. With a diverse student body of more than 900 learners and over 50 faculty committed to social justice, policy-informed science, evidence-based practice, and community engagement, the School offers a comprehensive portfolio of programs. These include the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), as well as two thriving online programs—BSW and MSW—which were recently ranked the nation’s #1 and #2 online social work programs by Forbes.

The School is also developing an online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program focused on non-profit leadership and macro practice. The School is home to two active research centers, the Children & Family Research Center (CFRC), and the Center for Prevention Research and Development (CPRD), among other key initiatives.
The School is deeply engaged with local, national, and global community and agency partners to advance social work practice, research, education, and workforce training. Its programs connect students with local, state, and international agencies through the Community Learning Lab, International Programs, Behavioral Health Workforce Education, Learning & Leadership (BHWELL), and other Integrated Behavioral Health initiatives; and it engages in workforce training statewide through the Provider Assistance & Training Hub (PATH). The School collaborates with state child welfare agencies on research and quality improvement through the Center for Excellence in Child Welfare, engages alumni and practitioners through its Engagement Office, and advances historical and social justice work through initiatives like Learning Our History. Additionally, Illinois Social Innovation and the Gilmore Business & Social Innovation Fund empower students and communities to co-create innovative solutions to pressing social challenges.

With nearly 8,000 alumni actively engaged as volunteers, ambassadors, and philanthropic supporters, the School benefits from a strong, engaged community. Since the conclusion of the With Illinois Campaign in 2022, where $8.5 million was raised, the School of Social Work has expanded their philanthropic and alumni engagement efforts, resulting in $10.2 million in new commitments from alumni, faculty, staff, and community members locally and across the country.

As chief academic and executive officer, the Dean will:

• Provide strategic leadership for the School’s programs, faculty, staff, and students, ensuring continued growth and excellence in academic offerings and research initiatives.
• Guide curriculum and program innovation consistent with the School’s mission of equity, social justice, and responsiveness to societal needs.
• Strengthen the breadth and impact of research, outreach, and service.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships internally across campus and externally with agencies, communities, and national stakeholders.
• Lead fundraising, alumni engagement, and resource development efforts.
• Oversee budgetary planning and operational effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with accreditation standards.
• Represent the School within university leadership forums, including the Provost’s Council of Deans.

The ideal candidate will possess a track record of outstanding leadership, including support for research, teaching, outreach, and equal opportunity; the ability to attract and retain a diverse faculty, student body, and staff; the demonstrated aptitude to generate public and private resources for the School; and a commitment to both undergraduate and graduate education. Expertise in social work or a closely related discipline is required. Successful candidates will possess qualifications warranting an appointment at the rank of tenured full professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

The position of Dean of the School of Social Work reports to the Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. This appointment is full-time and 12-month, with a negotiable start date.

Isaacson, Miller is assisting the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the search. Initial screening of applications will begin immediately, and interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date. No hiring decision will be made until the search closes. For full consideration, materials should be provided by February 2, 2026; however, materials will be considered until the position is filled. The budgeted salary range for this position is $275,000-$375,000 annually. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Nominations should include the name, position, address, and telephone number. Application materials should include a letter outlining qualifications, current vitae, and the names and contact information for five references. References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and vitae should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller: Isaacson Miller Website

Kate Berry – Managing Partner
Miguel Santiago – Senior Associate
Kaitlin Cruz – Managing Search Coordinator

Founded in 1867, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a preeminent public research university and land-grant institution whose mission is to enhance the lives of people in Illinois, across the nation, and around the world through our leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university research portfolio includes funding from all major federal research agencies and regularly leads the nation in National Science Foundation funding. The Illinois campus community includes approximately 39,000 undergraduate students, 22,000 graduate and professional students, 3,360 tenured/tenure track faculty members, 13,160 academic professionals and staff members. The university is a leader in providing access for students with disabilities. Additional information about the U. of I. may be obtained from its website: www.illinois.edu.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: req15817
Job Category: Faculty
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu