PRESIDENT

Millikin University

PRESIDENT

Millikin University, a private comprehensive university in Decatur, Illinois, invites nominations, inquiries, and applications for the position of president.

One of the first comprehensive private universities in the nation, Millikin was founded in 1901 by James Millikin, a successful farmer, banker, real estate investor, and industrial developer. Millikin’s vision for the University was that it should blend the traditional liberal arts education of his time with the practical orientation of his life and work. The combination, called Performance Learning, has become a hallmark of the University, whose mission is to prepare its students for professional success, democratic citizenship, and a life of meaning and value. Millikin’s success is evident in the lives and accomplishments of its students, 99.4 percent of whom are employed or in further education within six months of graduation. Washington Monthly ranks Millikin 30th in the nation and second in Illinois: U.S. News ranks it Tenth Best Regional College in the Midwest.   

The University offers over 50 baccalaureate-degree programs, three master’s degrees, a doctoral degree in nursing practice, and a variety of certificates. It is organized into the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Fine Arts, the College of Professional Studies, and the Tabor School of Business (ACBSP accredited). It currently enrolls 2,095 students who are taught by 147 full-time faculty and 131 part-time faculty, resulting in a 10:1 student/faculty ratio and an average class size of 16.   Its most well-known programs are in the Fine Arts; its musical theatre program is ranked among the top ten in the nation. 

Millikin’s new president will have the opportunity to build on a period of stability and success created by the current president, Dr. Patrick E. White. Under his leadership, the University completed an $85-million campaign, which closed at $94 million, and has had three record-breaking years of annual-fund contributions. Enrollments have stabilized and increased as a result of an effective investment strategy. Net-tuition revenue has increased; campus facilities have been improved and expanded; new programs have been added; and the relationship with the community of Decatur has been strengthened.

The new president will be expected to provide the leadership and vision for the next stage of Millikin’s development. This will include engaging the University community in strategic planning, preparing for the next campaign, and more effectively engaging the alumni.

The ideal candidate will have teaching experience in higher education; higher education leadership and administrative experience at least to the level of a dean or vice president; a demonstrated commitment to Performance Learning; a demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion; fundraising and enrollment management experience; and a record of creativity and innovation.   

For more information and for instructions to applicants, please review the position profile. For full consideration, applications should be received by November 4, 2019. Nominations and inquiries should be addressed to:

Robert Holyer, PhD

Executive Search Consultant

AGB Search

robert.holyer@agbsearch.com

804-708-0834 (o)

804-402-6736 (c)

Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn, and thrive.