University of Kansas
Dean, William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications
University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, us, 66045
Overview
The University of Kansas seeks a collaborative, dynamic, forward‑looking, research and community‑oriented leader to serve as the next Dean of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications (JMC). The Dean will collaborate closely with the Chief Academic Officer/Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor to advance excellence in education, research, and professional practice, spearhead fundraising efforts, and exemplify a lifelong commitment to learning, scholarship, and service. Responsibilities
Lead the JMC with a commitment to collaboration across the school’s academic areas and with partners across the University and beyond. Engage faculty and staff in advancing the goals of Jayhawks Rising, the strategic plan for KU Lawrence and Edwards. Spearhead the school’s fundraising efforts as part of the University’s next campaign. Advocate for building public trust in the media by leading outreach initiatives that engage communities, while ensuring students are prepared to uphold transparency, ethical standards, and innovative practices. Foster and maintain a collaborative and collegial culture that supports the school’s academic mission and community. Qualifications
Earned terminal degree in a relevant field with a distinguished record of teaching, research, and achievement warranting a tenured appointment at the rank of full professor in the school. Strong track record of leadership in higher‑education journalism and mass communications. Experience in fundraising, community engagement, and strategic planning in a university setting. Commitment to shared governance and inclusive academic culture. Applicant Information
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume, and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile. Candidate materials should be received by February 6, 2026. Direct inquiries to Jessica Herrington or Bree Liddell at KUDeanJMC@wittkieffer.com. Equal Opportunity
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university’s programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.
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The University of Kansas seeks a collaborative, dynamic, forward‑looking, research and community‑oriented leader to serve as the next Dean of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications (JMC). The Dean will collaborate closely with the Chief Academic Officer/Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor to advance excellence in education, research, and professional practice, spearhead fundraising efforts, and exemplify a lifelong commitment to learning, scholarship, and service. Responsibilities
Lead the JMC with a commitment to collaboration across the school’s academic areas and with partners across the University and beyond. Engage faculty and staff in advancing the goals of Jayhawks Rising, the strategic plan for KU Lawrence and Edwards. Spearhead the school’s fundraising efforts as part of the University’s next campaign. Advocate for building public trust in the media by leading outreach initiatives that engage communities, while ensuring students are prepared to uphold transparency, ethical standards, and innovative practices. Foster and maintain a collaborative and collegial culture that supports the school’s academic mission and community. Qualifications
Earned terminal degree in a relevant field with a distinguished record of teaching, research, and achievement warranting a tenured appointment at the rank of full professor in the school. Strong track record of leadership in higher‑education journalism and mass communications. Experience in fundraising, community engagement, and strategic planning in a university setting. Commitment to shared governance and inclusive academic culture. Applicant Information
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume, and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile. Candidate materials should be received by February 6, 2026. Direct inquiries to Jessica Herrington or Bree Liddell at KUDeanJMC@wittkieffer.com. Equal Opportunity
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university’s programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.
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