Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Professional Advancement (CoPA), an innovative unit dedicated to expanding access to higher education for working adults, non-traditional learners, and professionals seeking to advance their careers.
Mercer is committed to a mission beyond academics—serving communities locally, statewide, and globally. The University is dedicated to providing a high-quality, student-centered education that values inclusivity and personal connection. With a deep respect for its faith-based heritage, Mercer strives to unite its multi-campus community, preserve its close-knit culture, and remain a trusted partner in addressing Georgia’s most pressing needs while preparing graduates to change the world.
With a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement, the next Dean will build upon the reputation of Mercer’s College of Professional Advancement. They will be a seasoned administrator who combines deep respect for the mission of professional and continuing education with the entrepreneurial drive to grow programs, forge community and industry partnerships, and position the College as a regional and national leader in adult learning.
ABOUT MERCER
Mercer University is one of America’s oldest and most distinctive institutions of higher learning, offering rigorous programs that span the undergraduate liberal arts and sciences to doctoral-level degrees. Founded by early 19th-century Baptists, Mercer—while no longer formally denominationally affiliated—remains committed to an educational environment that embraces the historic Baptist principles of intellectual and religious freedom.
With about 9,000 students enrolled in 12 schools and Colleges, on major campuses in Macon and Atlanta, medical school campuses in Macon, Savannah, Columbus, Valdosta, and Carrollton, and at regional academic centers in Henry and Douglas counties, Mercer is ranked among the top tier and best values of national research universities by U.S. News & World Report. More than 90,000 Mercer alumni are making important contributions to their professions and communities throughout Georgia, the Southeast, and the world. While offering a breadth of programs found at much larger universities, Mercer maintains an intimate, student-focused culture that is more characteristic of smaller liberal arts colleges. Mercer’s uniqueness lies in how the University integrates five defining components of its mission: Liberal Learning, Professional Knowledge, Discovery, Service to Humankind, and Community.
THE COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Mercer University’s College of Professional Advancement (CoPA) offers a variety of lifelong learning opportunities, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as certificate programs. The College of Professional Advancement represents one of Mercer's most distinctive academic units, designed specifically to serve adult learners, working professionals, and students whose educational journeys do not follow a traditional path. CoPA carefully balances the study of liberal arts with a career-focused education to help students achieve their professional goals. The College offers flexible career-focused programs that meet students where they are — in terms of schedule, prior experience, and professional goals. The College is a hub for accelerated and applied learning, with programming that spans multiple disciplines and delivery formats, including online and blended options that make Mercer's academic resources accessible to students who cannot relocate or attend full-time. As of 2026, there are over 1,200 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, professional, and workforce development certificate programs.
THE ROLE - DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Reporting to the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, the Dean is responsible for the overall academic quality, strategic direction, financial health, and operational effectiveness of the College of Professional Advancement. The Dean represents the College to University leadership, accreditors, clinical and community partners, alumni, and donors, and works closely with department chairs, faculty, and staff to advance excellence in teaching, research, and service.
With a strong sense of purpose and commitment to creating a transformative educational experience, the Dean will play a critically important role in liaising with academic departments, Mercer’s Colleges, and other units on campus to ensure academic excellence and financial sustainability for CoPA. The Dean of CoPA serves as the College’s public face, providing leadership across campus and its multiple locations. By engaging with communities across Georgia, the Dean will help deliver on the College’s mission of educating individuals and providing lifelong learning opportunities for adults who seek leadership roles in their communities and beyond.
THE PROCESS OF CANDIDACY
The search committee will begin accepting and reviewing applications immediately and through Fall 2026. Requested application materials include a letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and a curriculum vitae/resumé. Although applications will be accepted until a Dean is selected, for best consideration, all candidates should submit their materials as soon as possible. All materials will be received in confidence. DSG Storbeck has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Dr. Thomas Fitch, Managing Director, and Ms. Amanda Bennett, Managing Associate, who can be contacted at: [email protected].
To express interest in this role, please submit materials directly to the following: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/23182
This is a full-time position that will be based on-site in either Atlanta or Macon, Georgia. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.
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