Job Abstract

The Associate Dean of Student Affairs at the Yale School of Environment (YSE) has three major areas of responsibility: students and the services that support them; service as part of the school’s administration; and liaison for all University student support units. This position reports to the Chief of Staff. Within a broad and evolving portfolio of duties, the Assoc. Dean acts as a strategic administrative partner to support the personal and non-academic needs of our community.

Serves as the chief student affairs officer and provides leadership and vision, administration, coordination and financial oversight for the Student Affairs department. This department supports the lifecycle of a student through graduation, including activities related to orientation, Title IX, student health and wellness, student programming, and many aspects of the student experience outside the classroom.

Works closely with DEI to integrate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives throughout the student experience, for an inclusive and respectful climate. Works collaboratively to enhance the development of the student body. In pursuit of delivering high quality services, this position exercises leadership and management over all student life activities, including counseling, discipline, government, organizations, and activities.

Advises on University and YSE policies to resolve issues and challenges and serves as resource for students with disabilities. Works with Yale Health on relevant student health services issues. Collaborates with Academic Affairs to provide guidance and support as part of the academic disciplinary and grievance processes and works with that team to produce the Handbook. Maintain confidentiality during discussions with students, faculty, police and health professionals.

Supervises student orientation and contributes significant leadership for YSE commencement activities. Works with and oversees a team of professional employees who assist the Assoc. Dean in all aspects of student affairs. The Assoc. Dean sets goals, evaluates performance, and promotes the professional development of staff and provides information and advice to leadership on student and other academic and administrative issues.

Participate in leadership meetings and administrative decisions. The Assoc. Dean should be able to represent the School effectively in multiple settings and, is the liaison who connects- YSE to University student support services. Cultivate smooth working relationships with units across YSE and Yale. Participates in University initiatives. Manages the development of operating plans, including programs services and budgets. Work with School and University staff to set development priorities for the Student Affairs.

Provides leadership and oversight of the collection and analysis of data concerning student experiences; student satisfaction with services; and envisions opportunities for strategic change, especially as it relates to the student experience, in partnership with the leadership team. Identifies and implements improvements in policies, processes and systems. Ensure compliance with School, University and federal rules, including Title IX.

Oversees the Student Affairs Committee (SAC), which liaisons between the student body and the school’s administration. Works closely with SAC, the Asst. Dean of Strategic Initiatives and the Assoc. Dean of Academic Affairs in the allocation of financial resources to student interest groups. Directs the budget for the Forestry Club (student organization responsible for social activities for the students). Ability to work closely with the Forestry Club to produce social events. Ability to play an essential role in advancing strategic and tactical priorities; leads implementing new strategies and manages major programs, committees or staff; represents the school on major University programs, committees and projects. 1. Plays an essential role in advancing strategic and tactical priorities. 2. Takes a lead role in implementing new strategies. 3. Leads and manages major programs, committees or staff. 4. Represents the school on major University programs, committees and projects. 5. Takes on other duties as assigned and as needs of the school evolve over time. Master’s degree with a minimum of eight years of demonstrated higher education experience working with students, faculty and university administration, or an equivalent combination of education and demonstrated experience.