Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Health Professions (CHP). This individual will need to understand the evolving landscape of healthcare workforce development while advancing the CHP’s position as a regional and national leader in preparing practice-ready, ethically grounded health professionals.
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 look to elevate the CHP. The next Dean will be a seasoned administrator with deep roots in health professions education who brings both scholarly credibility and a demonstrated record of building programs, forging partnerships, and advancing student success.
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 HEALTH PROFESSIONS
Established in 2013, The College of Health Professions (CHP) is one of Mercer's professional Colleges and reflects the University's broader commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful careers in service to others. The College offers programs designed to develop skilled, ethical, and compassionate health professionals who are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare environment. CHP prepares students to improve the health and quality of life of individuals and society through excellence in teaching, research, and service. The College is comprised of seven disciplines — physical therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, clinical psychology, athletic training, kinesiology, and occupational therapy. Programs combine comprehensive didactic instruction with extensive clinical education and service-learning opportunities, and are delivered primarily from Mercer's Atlanta and Macon campuses.
As of 2026, there are more than 750 students enrolled in degrees spanning the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, along with multiple combined-degree pathways that allow students to earn degrees across disciplines.
THE ROLE - DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS
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 Health Professions. The Dean represents the College to University leadership, accreditors, clinical and community partners, alumni, and donors, and works closely with department chairs, program directors, faculty, and staff to advance excellence in teaching, research, clinical practice, and service.
With a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to creating a transformative educational experience, the Dean will play a critical role in liaising with academic departments, Mercer’s Colleges, and other units across campus to ensure academic excellence and financial sustainability for CHP. The Dean of CHP serves as the College’s public face, providing leadership across campus and its multiple locations.
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/v2/23183
This is a full-time position that will be based on-site in Atlanta, Georgia, with travel to Macon, Georgia. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.
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