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Whitworth University, a nationally ranked, private Christian liberal arts institution serving undergraduate, graduate and continuing studies students, invites applications and nominations for the vice president for diversity, equity & inclusion (VP DEI). The university, located in Spokane, Wash., seeks a strongly collaborative, strategic, innovative and inspiring leader who has a track record of building programs and partnerships and is able to traverse various dimensions of diversity. The successful candidate will bring strong emotional intelligence, excellent communication skills, and a strategic mindset to address complex issues in order to move the institution forward.  

Founded in 1890, Whitworth University has consistently ranked among the top regional colleges and universities in the West. Whitworth has an enrollment of more than 2,700 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. With strong liberal arts undergraduate and graduate programs, Whitworth unites a robust commitment to Christian mission and service, academic rigor and care for students. 

Reporting to the president and serving as a member of the president’s cabinet, and in collaboration with division vice presidents, the vice president for diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) provides senior leadership over the development and implementation of DEI initiatives in support of Whitworth’s Christian mission and strategic plan to facilitate a university and learning environment centered around equity, inclusive excellence and the celebration of human diversity. The VP DEI will be a visible and connected leader who actively engages students, faculty and staff to further behaviors, attitudes and policies that support equity and inclusion, and foster a sense of belonging. The new VP DEI will take office on July 1, 2023. 

Maya Ranchod Kirkhope, vice president and senior consultant at Academic Search, is assisting with this national search. Applications, nominations and inquiries may be sent in confidence to WhitworthVPDEI@academicsearch.org. The position will remain open until filled, but only applications received by January 5, 2023, can be assured of full consideration. For more information about the institution, position, qualifications and application process, please review the full search profile linked above.    

Whitworth complies with all federal, state and local nondiscrimination laws that are applicable to religious nonprofit institutions and does not engage in unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. With our Christ-centered commitment to building a diverse and inclusive community, the university encourages applications from populations underrepresented at Whitworth including members of racial/ethnic communities, women and persons with disabilities.