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Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
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Position Number: 1823687
Location: Boston, MA
Position Type: Academic Vice Presidents and Provosts

Wentworth Institute of Technology
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Established in 1904, Wentworth Institute of Technology was founded on the principles of action-based learning, dedicated to preparing graduates to meet the evolving needs of a growing economy—an ethos that continues to ground and inspire the institution today. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in STEM and management disciplines throughout its three colleges: Architecture, Design and Construction Management; Arts and Sciences; and Engineering and Computer Science. Interdisciplinary study complemented by dynamic co-op work experiences are hallmarks of a Wentworth education. The university enrolls approximately 4,516 students, of which 4,342 are undergraduates. Located in the thriving city of Boston, Massachusetts, Wentworth is a school of opportunity that is deeply committed to transforming lives through the education of first-generation students, military veterans, urban youth, and women breaking barriers in technical fields.

The inaugural vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion (vice president) will join Wentworth at a time of significant positive momentum as the university, inspired by the dynamic vision of its new president and evolving leadership team, has placed the achievement of inclusive excellence as its top strategic priority. Reporting to President Mark Thompson, the vice president will establish a new Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, providing strategic leadership in the development of a comprehensive and integrated framework for diversity, equity and inclusion, synchronizing and leveraging current efforts and initiatives, and introducing emerging practices to move the university forward in creating a welcoming and inclusive learning and working environment. The vice president will conduct a university-wide audit of policies, practices, and procedures as they relate to inclusive excellence and develop a plan to address issues and/or gaps. Following an initial assessment, the vice president will implement support services specifically designed to serve the needs of underrepresented and/or marginalized populations.

The vice president will oversee and champion the work of the Center for Diversity & Social Justice Programs—promoting inclusion and cross-cultural perspectives among and across students of all identities—and the Center for Community & Learning Partnerships—supporting college access, community engagement, and service learning initiatives that foster connection and service between the university and its surrounding community. Additionally, the vice president will serve on the President's Advisory Council (PAC) and co-chair the President's Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, working collaboratively with campus partners across the university—academic affairs, advancement, business, enrollment management, finance, general counsel, external relations, human resources, marketing, and student affairs—to provide guidance to ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion remain integral in all dimensions of the University. Throughout the year, the vice president will develop and support highly visible educational events and initiatives designed to further the university's cultural competency goals and will be actively engaged in community-building including the development of allies to support a safe, welcoming, and inclusive campus for all students, faculty, and staff. In partnership with the provost, senior university leadership, Faculty Senate, deans, and department chairs, the vice president will collaborate on efforts to recruit, support, and retain faculty, staff, and students of all backgrounds. Through strategic policy development, practice, advocacy and mentoring, the vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion will endeavor to transform programs and processes to support a vibrant campus life, positive and respectful culture, and diverse curriculum at Wentworth.

An advanced degree (master's or higher) with a progressive record of experience advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in a higher education setting, or equivalent combination of academic preparation and proven leadership experience, are required. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader, strategist, and tactician who is equipped to accomplish goals through a collaborative, community- and coalition-building process. Additional competencies and experience that will be important in the selection of the inaugural vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion include: a deep understanding of and expertise in the issues of race, sexuality, gender, disability, indigeneity, class, and the dynamics of difference, privilege, and power; demonstrated ability to foster dialogue, grow support for new inclusive initiatives, and to facilitate change; understanding of best practices with regards to strengthening cultural competency across multiple constituencies—students, faculty, and staff; excellent communication, interpersonal, advocacy, and public relations skills; familiarity with student services, pipeline initiatives, and enrollment management practices designed to support the recruitment, retention, and graduation of students of diverse backgrounds; understanding of evolving issues and demographic trends impacting higher education institutions; high degree of personal energy and fortitude needed to effect substantial and sustainable change; and an unwavering commitment to inclusive excellence, coupled with an ability to inspire and influence others to achieve their full potential.

Review of applications will begin March 16, 2020 and continue until the position is filled. A resume with an accompanying cover letter may be submitted via the Spelman Johnson website at http://www.spelmanjohnson.com/open-positions. Nominations for this position may be emailed to Valerie B. Szymkowicz at vbs@spelmanjohnson.com. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895.

Visit the Wentworth Institute of Technology website at https://wit.edu/

Wentworth Institute of Technology, an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a diverse work force. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.