Brief overview of the ADSA role: The ADSA is responsible for the development, implementation, and enforcement of student affairs related policies and procedures, and for ensuring that student support services and programming promote student success, well-being, and professional development. The ADSA provides guidance and support regarding the planning and coordination of student-organized events and programs. In addition, the ADSA directly plans and oversees such critical student programming as orientation, graduation-related events, and wellness initiatives. The ADSA is also responsible for managing and maintaining student records, overseeing all student organizations, facilitating and coordinating student accommodations, and providing individual student support, including in the areas of crisis response and student wellness.

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The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is seeking an Assistant Dean for Student Affairs (ADSA) within the Winston College of Law. Reporting directly to the Dean of the College, this critical role provides leadership, administrative oversight, and operational support for the College’s student affairs functions.

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Competencies/Qualifications

• knowledge of student affairs principles, student development theory, and applicable policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements affecting student support, wellness, accommodations, and student records

• skill in administrative leadership, project management, staff supervision, effective communication, and the planning and execution of student programs and events

• ability to support students in complex and sensitive situations, including crisis response and coordination of appropriate interventions; to develop, interpret, and enforce student-affairs–related policies and procedures; and to assess effectiveness, establish priorities, and work collaboratively across the institution

Required Education and Experience

• a post-graduate degree or significant experience in the student life/affairs field at the higher-education level

• demonstrated experience in student affairs or other related student support functions within a higher education environment

• demonstrated leadership ability and administrative accomplishments in positions of increasing responsibility

• demonstrated commitment to the intellectual, professional, and personal development of students

• a history of working collaboratively with a variety of constituencies, including faculty, staff, students, and administrators

• experience in the areas of student advising, accommodations, student programming, crisis management, and wellness

Preferred Education and Experience

Although these are preferred qualifications, they are not substitutes for experience in the student life/affairs field.

• J.D. degree

• experience in the practice of law, or significant experience working in a law school or professional school environment

About Winston College of Law: Founded in 1890, the University of Tennessee Winston College of Law is dedicated to preparing students to practice law with skill, professionalism, and a distinctive commitment to leadership and public service. The College offers Juris Doctor and master’s degree programs as well as signature educational opportunities in four highly regarded academic centers, focusing respectively on business law, advocacy, leadership, and furthering justice within the Appalachian region. The College’s nationally recognized Legal Clinic is the longest-running legal clinical program in the country.

Interested candidates should formally apply and include a letter of intent, CV/Resume, and names and contact information for three (3) professional references. To be assured of full consideration, all materials should be submitted by Sunday, April 12, 2026. Nominations and confidential inquiries are encouraged and may be sent via e-mail to Brooke Swart, Executive Recruitment Manager, at bswart@utk.edu.

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Key Areas of Accountability

Administrative Oversight, Management, and Student Affairs Operations: The ADSA provides comprehensive organizational leadership and administrative oversight for all student affairs functions, encompassing management of student records, accommodations, student organizations, and programming. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, interpreting, and enforcing policies and procedures related to student affairs. It involves planning, coordinating, and overseeing major student events and programs—including new student orientation, graduation activities, and wellness initiatives—while ensuring that workflows are efficient and best practices are established. Additionally, the role ensures compliance with University, College, and accrediting agency requirements. The position will foster an environment that supports student success by maintaining effective communication with students, faculty, staff, and administrators.

Student Support, Wellness, and Crisis Management: The ADSA provides direct support to students experiencing academic, personal, or professional challenges by assisting them with identifying concerns, developing solutions, and understanding potential implications for academic progress and professional licensure. It oversees and coordinates the College’s efforts related to student wellness and mental health, ensuring that students receive comprehensive care. Additionally, the position is responsible for referring students to appropriate University, community, and professional resources, including coordination with case management and intervention teams as needed.

Member of the Dean’s Leadership Team: Reporting directly to the Dean of the College, the ADSA provides counsel on student affairs, student support, and policy matters. The ADSA participates in strategic planning, assessment, and implementation of College initiatives, working collaboratively with associate deans, directors, staff, faculty, and University partners to address student-related issues, facilitate institutional change, and develop solutions. Additionally, this position serves on College and University committees and supports graduation-related activities and commencement.

Staff Supervision and Personnel Management: The ADSA provides direct and indirect supervision of exempt and non-exempt staff within student affairs units, establishes expectations, supports professional development, evaluates performance, and ensures effective coordination among staff and units.

Student Records, Exams, and Academic Coordination: The ADSA oversees the maintenance of comprehensive, accurate, and confidential student records and supports exam administration and related processes in coordination with Academic Affairs. The position collaborates with the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs on matters related to grades, rankings, and bar-admission documentation, ensuring appropriate alignment between academic and student affairs responsibilities. The ADSA supplies enrollment, records, and student data for assessment, compliance, and accreditation purposes.

Evaluation, Assessment, and Accreditation Support: The ADSA assesses the effectiveness of student affairs programs and services and compiles and analyzes data for internal and external evaluation, assessment, and accreditation. Additionally, the position participates in accreditation processes and contributes to evaluative reporting and transparency efforts.

Budget, Facilities, and Program Support: The ADSA oversees and approves budgetary expenditures related to student affairs programming, orientation, graduation-related events, wellness initiatives, and other student support activities. Collaboration with College leadership on facilities, technology, and operational needs related to student affairs functions is essential.