Dean, College of Nursing

Position Overview

Rush University is seeking an exceptional visionary leader for the role of Dean, College of Nursing. This is a defining moment for a candidate who will shape the future of one of the nation’s premier Colleges of Nursing by leading academic, research, and clinical initiatives within a nationally recognized academic health system. For full consideration, please apply by February 6, 2026.

The Dean will drive strategy, enhance academic quality, strengthen community and academic–practice partnerships, and elevate the College’s influence in policy, research, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Expand the College’s national and international influence by shaping discourse on emerging political, regulatory, and policy issues.
• Lead the growth of the research enterprise by securing resources, supporting team science, and advancing PhD/DNP research pathways.
• Deepen integration with the Department of Nursing and the Department of Academic Practice Nursing to strengthen the academic–practice continuum.
• Enhance the student experience across master’s and doctoral programs with a focus on academic quality and innovative teaching models.
• Advance education, research, and clinical practice through evidence-based and technology-enabled approaches.
• Integrate emerging technologies into instructional design, research methodologies, and preparation of advanced practice nurses.
• Drive interprofessional collaboration across the University and Health System to embed faculty and students in team-based care environments.
• Serve as a dedicated ambassador and advocate for the College among national and international partners.
• Strengthen community partnerships and expand the College’s role in health equity, policy, and community-engaged practice.
• Cultivate shared governance, faculty development, and inclusive excellence in a dynamic academic environment.
• Provide forward-looking stewardship of resources while supporting enrollment, affordability, and succession planning.

Required Qualifications

• An earned doctorate in nursing or a closely related field.
• Illinois RN licensure or the ability to obtain licensure in the state of Illinois.
• Demonstrated progressive leadership in academic nursing with success in accreditation, faculty development, and program innovation.
• A distinguished scholarly record suitable for appointment as a tenured full professor.
• Proven success in securing external research funding.
• Excellence in teaching.

Benefits & Perks

• Generous employee benefits package offered by Rush University and its associated academic health system.
• Opportunity to contribute to a nationally recognized, innovative College of Nursing.
• Access to a vibrant academic and clinical environment in Chicago, a major metropolitan center with extensive cultural, research, and policy resources.
• Leadership opportunities that include fostering community engagement and advancing health equity.