Vice president academic affairs

PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Carlow University, a private, Catholic, liberal arts university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, seeks an innovative, mission-driven, and collaborative Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs to lead a vibrant academic community grounded in the Mercy tradition and dedicated to advancing social justice, inclusion, and the common good.

Founded in 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy, Carlow empowers a diverse community of learners through transformational education, combining the liberal arts with strong professional programs. Today, Carlow enrolls more than 2,450 undergraduate and graduate students, maintaining a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Thirty-five percent of undergraduates identify with underrepresented racial or ethnic groups, more than half are Pell Grant recipients, and 55% are first-generation college students, reflecting the University’s commitment to access and opportunity.

Carlow has been reaccredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (2025) with 16 commendations and no recommendations or requirements. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Top Performer on Social Mobility, and designated a Silver Military Friendly School, Carlow continues to be celebrated for its innovation and student success.

Reporting directly to the President, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs serves as the University’s chief academic officer, providing strategic leadership and oversight for all academic programs, faculty, and student learning initiatives. The Provost works collaboratively with deans, faculty, and staff to advance Carlow’s mission, optimize learning, and drive academic innovation aligned with the University’s strategic plan and Mercy values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide academic vision and leadership that foster innovation, integrity, and growth across all programs.
• Advance academic excellence, inclusive pedagogy, and student success at all levels.
• Strengthen strategic partnerships with industry, healthcare, and educational institutions that prepare graduates for an evolving workforce.
• Champion faculty development, research, and creative activity.
• Ensure accreditation standards are met and continuous improvement processes are embedded.
• Promote transparency, collaboration, and accountability in decision-making.:
• Serve as a visible and engaged campus leader who exemplifies Carlow’s Mercy heritage and mission.

Qualifications:

The successful candidate will hold an earned doctorate degree and possess significant higher education leadership experience, a record of scholarly achievement sufficient for appointment as a full professor, and a student-centered, inclusive leadership style.

The next Provost will demonstrate:

• Proven success in leading academic innovation, assessment, and accreditation.
• A collaborative, transparent, and data-informed approach to decision-making.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• The integrity, energy, and strategic vision to advance Carlow’s academic mission.

For full job details, see the Provost Prospectus.

Application Process:

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and a list of five professional references with full contact information. No references will be contacted without the candidate’s prior permission.

Applications should be submitted to Carlow University at the "apply" link below or Employment Opportunities | Pittsburgh, Pa - Carlow University.

Nominations may be submitted confidentially to the Office of Human Resources at [email protected].

Review of applications will begin December 1st and continue until the position is filled.

Carlow University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status.