Responsibilities of the Position

Reporting to the provost and serving on the provost division’s senior leadership team and president’s cabinet, the dean of students provides senior-level leadership, vision, and administrative oversight for the office of student affairs, which includes international student services, student disability services, student conduct, center for career and community engagement, and the wellness center. The dean serves as an advocate for students and leads student affairs staff, student groups, faculty, and other members of the university community to develop co-curricular programming, ensuring integration with the academic life of the institution, supporting learning and development of students outside the classroom, and encouraging student personal growth and development; assists in creating an inclusive and culturally competent campus community; and conveys a passion for student development and innovative thinking that enhances opportunities for students in a primarily graduate-level university setting. The dean of students provides leadership for a staff of six and oversees a $1.3 million budget.

Additional responsibilities and duties include:

  • Provide direction and supervision of the units and directors within the office of student affairs: international student services, student disability services, student conduct, center for career and community engagement, and the wellness center.
  • Work closely with the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to establish a student culture where diversity and inclusion are encouraged and where students learn to respect differences, take responsibility for their actions, and exercise leadership.
  • Recruit, hire, supervise, train, and evaluate all student affairs staff, ensuring high levels of accountability. Provide information and opportunities for professional development and ongoing training.
  • Develop key collaborative relationships with campus administrative areas, faculty, and campus and community leaders to enhance the planning and implementation of strategic initiatives, promote a positive campus culture, and create opportunities for student engagement and leadership development.
  • Center diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of student life, with the commitment that these ideals are critical to engendering a sense of trust and belonging.
  • Provide leadership and guidance in analyzing, reviewing, creating, and interpreting student policies and procedures.
  • Lead the collection and reporting of area crime statistics in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act.
  • Work with the director of student conduct for administrative oversight of Title IX regulations and student code of conduct, including internal disciplinary procedures.
  • Lead university response in student crisis situations, working with appropriate departments and staff members as needed.
  • Serve as a resource and advisor to other campus offices and departments on student conduct and behavior matters.
  • Administer the university response upon student initiation of the student complaint procedure.
  • Develop and implement student affairs strategic goals and objectives using assessment data, research, and best practices to inform this work.
  • Work with institutional research on data collection and analysis addressing student services’ effectiveness.
  • Oversee the fall and spring new student orientations.
  • Develop, manage, and monitor budgets related to student activities, wellness center, or related areas.
  • Lead the coordination of the publication of the annual student handbook and other student affairs print and electronic materials in association with the appropriate staff.
  • Participate in committees, meetings, and other initiatives as needed and contribute to the overall leadership and administration of the university.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the college administration and contribute to the university’s overall strategic goals and mission through effective leadership, innovation, and collaboration in student affairs.

The Position

Qualifications and Characteristics of the Successful Candidate

A master’s degree and a substantial and proven record of broad, progressive, and substantive senior-level administrative management and leadership experience in student affairs/higher education are required. Experience with adult and graduate student populations is preferred. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, highly visible, transparent, and approachable student-centered leader with significant working knowledge of federal policies, including the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Title II, Title IX, ADA/504, and SEVIS. Superior communication and relationship-building skills; proven experience with staff supervision and team development, assessment and data-driven strategic planning and policy development related to student conduct, student crisis, and compliance; and demonstrated respect for diversity of identities and experiences, an orientation toward equity and inclusion, and cultural competency in all aspects of campus life will be important considerations in the selection of the next dean of students.

Additionally, stakeholders at CIIS identified the following characteristics and attributes when considering the position of the dean of students (in no particular order):

  • Able to maintain a highly engaged, trustworthy, accessible relationship with students and a visible profile throughout the campus community.
  • Possess a deep passion for working with and advocating for students; commit to and understand the unique needs of adult learners and graduate students.
  • Demonstrate skills as an advocate and champion for diversity, equity, inclusivity, accessibility, and intersectionality, along with a willingness to stand up for these values.
  • Be an excellent and transparent communicator with strong public relations skills and the ability to reach all levels of the university, including students, faculty, parents, alumni, and upper-level administration.
  • Hold strong knowledge of and have substantive experience with student conduct policies and complex cases involving students.
  • Lead with strength and compassion, capable of managing crises and complex situations, maintaining an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and support of students and staff, and ready to contribute to the institution’s strategic and operational goals.
  • Able to manage multiple competing priorities and take initiative in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Possess strong assessment skills and the ability to bring metrics, data, and statistical analysis to inform decision-making.
  • Have a proven track record of experience and knowledge about crisis management and emergency preparedness in higher education and experience working with conflict resolution, emotional support, and advocacy.
  • Be committed to continuing a student-centered, educational approach to learning and engagement throughout the units’ programs and services; knowledgeable about mental health issues and laws impacting campus professionals and students.
  • Remain calm, constructive, and sensitive to multiple constituents in response to crises while leading others during those critical times.
  • Prioritize working collaboratively with a team of colleagues and representing student affairs in various contexts.
  • Demonstrate experience in diplomacy, political savviness, mediation, and the ability to develop consensus around complex issues.
  • Able to make difficult decisions when necessary, to conduct difficult conversations when pertinent, to listen to all sides of an issue, and to remain “cool under pressure” in all situations.
  • Be an innovator with a growth mindset and a willingness to try new opportunities, remain informed on new trends and best practices, and lead significant change processes.
  • Serve as a credible, engaging, supportive, empathetic, and approachable supervisor with knowledge of the responsibilities of each staff member’s position and respect for their work and contributions and adept at advocating for staff and students, their programs, and their needs.
  • Possess demonstrated collaboration with faculty and academic administration leadership in improving educational programs and services that foster student success.
  • Maintain an unquestioned commitment to integrity, with the ability to always remain fair and unbiased.

History of the Position  

Fraylanie Aglipay most recently served as dean of students at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). Previously, she was the CIIS director of online engagement and associate dean of students. She transitioned to a new role at Touro University California in July 2023. Prior to Aglipay, Yunny Yip served as dean of students at CIIS for nearly seven years.

Beginning in 2022, under the leadership of the dean of students and with the arrival of President Blomberg and Provost Littles, the office of student affairs underwent a redesign process guided by a consultant and external review aimed at evaluating the organizational structure and service effectiveness of the department. The review resulted in a departmental reorganization and a three-year strategic plan with student-driven themes such as engagement, retention, and student development. The reorganization is tied directly to implementing the CIIS strategies from the institutional strategic plan, mission, vision, and seven commitments. The next dean of students will have an opportunity to utilize the strategic priorities and external review in crafting a dynamic and forward-thinking vision for student affairs that is student-centered and integral in nature

CIIS has retained Spelman Johnson to assist in recruiting the next dean of students. The successful candidate will be expected to take office in February 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Opportunities and Challenges of the Role

The mission of CIIS is focused on transformative integral education grounded in wellness, healing, social impact, and higher consciousness while promoting and celebrating the diversity of all members of the community. The dean will embrace this mission and ensure that all programs, services, initiatives, and endeavors of the office align with and support the mission and students of CIIS.

In transitioning to CIIS, the dean of students will encounter the following opportunities, priorities, and challenges, as shared by key University stakeholders:

  • The next dean of students will be expected to keep students and their diverse experiences at the center of their work and utilize policies, procedures, and best practices to pursue community wellbeing.
  • CIIS continues to transform; a new dean of students must be well-equipped to working in a continually evolving environment and facilitate the staff’s knowledge, understanding, and ability to navigate change.
  • Serve on the provost’s leadership team and the president’s cabinet as a vital colleague, partner, and subject matter expert.
  • Earn the respect of the campus community through accessibility, visibility, transparency, and positive follow-through.
  • Help facilitate intentional, strategic change that is proactive and works to enhance the mission and values of CIIS.
  • Bring a comprehensive and integrated understanding of student health and wellbeing and provide leadership to strengthen institutional support and campus-wide capacity to support holistic student development for a predominately graduate student population.
  • The staff needs an experienced leader to infuse energy, innovative ideas, and a focus on their purpose within the organization.
  • Bring an entrepreneurial spirit to the position with creative approaches to allocating resources and providing new services and programs.
  • Provide leadership for and assessment of student conduct policies, practices, and education that position students as knowledgeable and engaged citizens of the CIIS community. Thoughtful, engaging programs and responses for conflict resolution that highlight restorative justice and equity frameworks are needed.
  • The new dean of students must take the time to truly get to know the entire staff, their roles, talents, and contributions to the organization and student success.
  • Build an exemplary team through the thorough evaluation of the current staff structure, enhancement of current staff’s morale, and creation of a culture of honest information sharing and solicitation of others’ input.
  • Positively represent student affairs and its work to the campus and the community by accurately and authentically telling their “story.”
  • Demonstrate a growth mindset and remain informed on recent trends, technology, and best practices.
  • The dean of students must be extremely visible and approachable on campus and within the San Francisco community.
  • The Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) accreditation visit and board of trustees meeting are scheduled for February 2024. The dean of students will be asked to participate in these meetings.
  • The next dean of students must bring energy and enthusiasm in transitioning to CIIS and their new position.

Measures of Success

At an appropriate interval after joining CIIS, the following items will initially define success for the new dean of students. The new dean of students will have:

  • Become a highly visible leader on campus, authentically representing student affairs to the campus community.
  • Assessed departmental strengths and weaknesses and outlined the strategic direction and long-term plan for student affairs consistent with institutional mission and goals.
  • Worked to help students feel empowered, valued, and well-supported both academically and personally; students are comfortable speaking with the dean of students and actively seek out this person for assistance and advice.
  • Ensured all programs and services align with the mission and values of the institution.
  • Established strong working partnerships with the institutional leadership, direct reports, students, faculty, and key institutional colleagues.
  • Built a strong staff that feels supported, valued, empowered, and unified by a shared vision; increased morale and professional development opportunities for all staff; provided stability in times of change.
  • Worked to enhance internal communication to keep all staff informed of policies, procedure updates, and other changes.
  • Continued use of assessment and data-driven decisions within student affairs.
  • Become a valued and trusted member of the CIIS community, known by faculty, staff, and students.
  • Established relationships with the San Francisco community and is working to solidify partnerships and collaborations within the community.
  • Created effective methods of communication with students to successfully respond to needs and concerns.

Institution & Location

Overview of Student Affairs

CIIS is committed to providing a student-centered education. To ensure that each student feels fully supported throughout their academic career, the office of student affairs coordinates resources to ensure students’ health and safety and enhance their social, mental, physical, spiritual, and professional wellbeing. Student affairs comprises the following functions:

  • International Student Services
  • Student Disability Services
  • Student Conduct
  • Center for Career and Community Engagement
  • The Wellness Center

Vision:

  • To offer services that empower students to lead purpose-driven and culturally sensitive lives for themselves and their communities.

Mission:

  • Engaging students in programs and services that create transformative learning experiences, foster success, and prepare individuals of tomorrow in a diverse and global society.

Core Values:

  • Proactive, Innovative, and Responsive Programs & Policies
  • Collaboration & Communication
  • Responsible and Ethical Decision-making
  • Promote environments that elevate the wellbeing of the community

Dean of Students homepage

Dean of Students Organizational Chart

Overview of the Provost Division

The provost oversees seven essential areas of the university, which are led by the vice provost and deans.

  • Student Affairs
  • Academic Administration
  • Admissions & Financial Aid
  • Institutional Research (IR) and Accreditation
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Faculty Development, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • The Library and Academic Support

Leadership of the Division

Kathy Littles, Provost

Kathy Littles is the provost of CIIS. She is a visionary academic administration leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, including extensive experience with and focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Previously, Provost Littles served as associate provost for faculty affairs and senior diversity officer at Saint Mary’s College, dean of CIIS’ School of Consciousness and Transformation, and director of CIIS’ transformative inquiry department. She has also served as faculty at the University of California at Davis, Berkeley City College, and the College of Marin. Prior to her academic tenure, Provost Littles worked as the arts education coordinator for Monterey County, as well as the cultural funding program coordinator for the City of Oakland.

As provost, Littles serves as the chief academic officer, ensuring a multiplicity of exceptional learning, teaching, and research experiences for students and faculty. She directs and integrates the university’s diverse academic efforts and initiatives to nurture a flourishing community and enables CIIS faculty to excel in teaching and scholarship.

Provost Littles earned a PhD in Cultural Studies from the University of California at Davis, an MA in Anthropology from San Francisco State University, and a BA in Anthropology and Art from Saint Mary’s College of California.

Provost Division Organizational Chart

Institutional Overview

The California Institute of Integral Studies is an internationally recognized leader in integral education. CIIS has an enrollment of more than 1,600 students pursuing degrees in its schools of Consciousness and Transformation, Professional Psychology and Health, and Undergraduate Studies. CIIS hosts a vibrant art exhibition program and offers a dynamic array of events through its public programs and performances division, including workshops, concerts, and conferences. The university provides low-cost mental health services to the San Francisco Bay Area through its eight award-winning counseling clinics. CIIS is accredited by the Western Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

CIIS’ Mission & Seven Commitments

“CIIS facilitates radical transformation through unique and dynamic educational experiences in the service of self, society, and Earth. We also commit to living our seven cherished values, laying the foundation for a strong and unified community built upon wisdom, trust, and collective spirit.”

  1. Embody integral approaches to learning and research.
  2. Affirm and elevate spirituality.
  3. Advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and social and ecological justice.
  4. Embrace multiple ways of knowing, learning, and teaching.
  5. Cultivate innovation and sustainability.
  6. Nurture and support a flourishing and cohesive community.
  7. Foster transformative integral governance.

Mission and Commitments

Strategic Initiatives

The CIIS Commitment to Diversity

“In keeping with the Seven Commitments of CIIS, CIIS is committed to providing qualified students an equal opportunity to participate in the educational opportunities at CIIS. The university strives to cultivate and sustain an inclusive campus culture to ensure an academic experience and social atmosphere that is respectful of people of all cultures and traditions.”

 

The Student Body

Total enrollment: 1,566

Female: 69%

Male: 19%

Other: 12%

American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0.2%

Asian: 6.8%

Black or African American: 6.3%

Citizenship Unknown (non-US citizens living in other countries): 2.7%

Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.3%

Hispanic: 13.3%

Two or more races: 5.9%

Unknown: 3.3%

U.S. Nonresident: 3.4%

White: 57.9%

Institutional Leadership

Brock Blomberg, President

President S. Brock Blomberg is the eighth president of CIIS. A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Tampa, he earned master’s and doctoral degrees in economics from Johns Hopkins University.

President Blomberg is focused on developing CIIS as a singular, sustainable, and spiritually grounded institution. Since assuming the presidency in 2021, he has engaged the university community in articulating a vision for CIIS’ future through a strategic planning effort involving faculty, staff, students, alumni, partners, families, and friends. This effort resulted in an ambitious new six-year strategic plan: Building on Commitment: CIIS @ 60, which reimagines and resources the university’s core identity for the 21st century, including new branding and a state-of-the-art website, overhauling institutional systems and structures, elevating the office of diversity, equity, and inclusion to its own division, and developing a university endowment. President Blomberg is also prioritizing the wellbeing of the entire community through the restoration and reinvestment action plan to bring compensation equity to faculty and staff, transforming CIIS’ DEI model to focus on resilience and wellbeing, and building bold and innovative programs for health and wellness. Additionally, he is committed to advancing the university’s educational prominence through public outreach and conversation, which has resulted in widespread media placement of faculty and staff research in renowned publications, particularly related to psychedelic-assisted therapy, climate change, and trauma. He continues to support public programs and global initiatives—including a transformation accelerator with enterprise luminaries and a center for contemplative studies—that have placed CIIS at the center of essential international conversations.

Cabinet Organizational Chart

Benefits Overview

Benefits Overview

CIIS offers a comprehensive array of benefits and accommodations to its faculty and staff.

Application & Nomination

Application and Nomination

California Institute of Integral Studies has retained the services of Spelman Johnson, a leading national executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. To apply for this position please click on the Apply button, complete the brief application process, and upload your resume and position-specific cover letter.

Nominations for this position and questions about the status of the search may be emailed to Anne-Marie Kenney, senior consultant, at amk@spelmanjohnson.com. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

The anticipated hiring range is $125,000 to $135,000 annually.

Visit the California Institute of Integral Studies website at https://www.ciis.edu/

 Student Affairs website at https://www.ciis.edu/student-experience/supporting-you

 CIIS strives to cultivate and preserve a culture of inclusion and belonging as part of its Seven Commitments. More than accept difference, we honor and celebrate our staff’s diversity of experiences, perspectives, and identities. Together, our community creates and maintains working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, accessible, and welcoming.

 CIIS is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an open, fair, inclusive, non-discriminatory environment for all individuals across differences of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, socio-economic status, ethnicity, age, physical ability, or medical condition. We seek to increase the presence, representation, and inclusion of U.S. historically under-represented people of color, international, bilingual, and bicultural students, faculty, and staff; and to provide an environment that will attract and retain individuals identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and intersex (LGBTQQI+). CIIS is committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.

Related Links

History of CIIS

City of San Fransisco, California

Living in San Francisco, California

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