Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the Tift College of Education.
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.
The next Dean will be a seasoned administrator with deep roots in teacher education and educational leadership programs and who brings both scholarly credibility and a demonstrated record of building innovative, equity-oriented, and transformative learning experiences. The next Dean will be a collaborative and transparent communicator who inspires faculty, staff, and students through a shared vision and inclusive leadership. This individual will also build strong partnerships with school systems and community organizations while successfully navigating the evolving landscape of educator preparation and workforce development in Georgia and beyond.
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 TIFT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
For more than 100 years, Mercer University has prepared Georgia's teachers and educational leaders, and today the Tift College of Education carries that legacy forward with a firm commitment to excellence in every aspect of educator preparation. The College prepares educators and educational leaders through innovative, student-centered programs that emphasize academic excellence, hands-on learning, and community engagement. Guided by its mission to prepare educators who teach, learn, create, discover, inspire, empower, and serve, the College is committed to advancing educational equity while fostering transformative learning experiences for students and the communities they serve.
The College enrolls over 800 students and offers a broad range of degree and certification programs, from initial teacher certification through advanced graduate study, all designed to serve both aspiring educators and experienced professionals seeking to grow in the field. Areas of study include initial and advanced teacher education, educational leadership, instructional design and technology, and specialized certification pathways. Students benefit from extensive field experiences in diverse school settings, flexible learning formats for working professionals, and close collaboration with faculty mentors who are dedicated to supporting their academic and professional success.
Tift College of Education is home to a distinguished faculty of scholars, researchers, and experienced practitioners who are committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. Faculty members work closely with students while partnering with school districts, community organizations, and educational institutions to address real-world challenges and improve educational outcomes. This collaborative environment creates meaningful opportunities for students to engage in research, professional development, and applied learning throughout their academic journey.
The College also supports innovation through a variety of partnerships, specialized centers, and initiatives that strengthen educator preparation and educational research. These include strategic partnerships with school systems through their Enterprise Learning Partnerships, the STEM Education Innovation Lab, international education initiatives through Mercer on Mission, and Roberts Academy, Mercer University's affiliated school serving children with dyslexia while providing a unique learning and research environment for students and faculty. Together, these initiatives reinforce the College's commitment to improving education locally, nationally, and globally while preparing graduates to become impactful leaders.
THE ROLE - DEAN OF THE TIFT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Mercer University seeks an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Dean of the College of Education, a role that calls for someone who can champion the preparation of transformative educators while advancing the College's standing as a regional and national leader in teacher education, educational leadership, and related fields
This individual understands the complex landscape of higher education, including accreditation, enrollment, faculty development, and external partnerships, and can navigate it with both strategic clarity and collaborative spirit. They will be a visible and credible ambassador for the College, cultivating relationships with P-12 school systems, community organizations, state education agencies, and philanthropic partners. Equally important is their ability to inspire and support a diverse faculty and staff, foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, and ensure that the College's programs reflect the highest standards of rigor, equity, and relevance.
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 Education.
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.
To express interest in this role, please submit materials directly to the following: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/23184.
This is a full-time position that will be based on-site in either Atlanta or Macon, Georgia, with travel to all locations within the state. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.