President
The Radford University Board of Visitors invites applications and nominations for the role of President. The successful candidate will have the vision, experience, credentials, skills and integrity to build upon the many successes of President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., who has positioned the University to continue to grow in enrollment, fundraising and academic reputation.
Radford University is a comprehensive public institution that is known for student-focused academic programs, a strong emphasis on service to others and a picturesque campus. As a mid-size institution, the University provides its students a winning combination of broad opportunities associated with a large university, as well as highly personalized relationships considered the hallmark of a smaller college. Well-known for its innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life, Radford University offers many opportunities for success in and out of the classroom.
Located along the New River in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, its beautiful, 204-acre American classical campus is filled with state-of-the-art-facilities, including the newly renovated Reed and Curie Halls in the Artis College of Science and Technology. The University just recently broke ground on the new Artis Center for Adaptive Innovation and Creativity, a revolutionary facility that will blend the arts and health sciences. Additionally, in 2019, Carilion Clinic, Jefferson College of Health Sciences and Radford University joined together to merge Jefferson College of Health Sciences into Radford University’s colleges and departments. The merger came to life as Radford University Carilion (RUC). This public-private partnership focuses on cutting edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service. RUC, located in Roanoke, Virginia, enrolled its first class of Highlanders in Fall 2019.
The University is well positioned to continue to elevate its profile nationally and internationally. The next President will work with the faculty, students, staff, alumni and members of the business community to identify, foster and enhance programs throughout the University. The next President will also work to promote the Radford brand so that Radford University is a school of choice for students in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the region, the nation and beyond.
The President of Radford University is the chief executive officer, appointed by and accountable to the Board of Visitors. The President is responsible for the leadership of the institution in compliance with University policies and consistent with all applicable federal, state and local laws. The President oversees the day-to-day administration of the institution while respecting the time-honored internal governance model of the University.
The University has significant opportunities to increase public and private revenue streams and remains committed to increasing philanthropic support through the continued expansion of student scholarships, academic excellence and research, student success and engagement, the athletic experience and emerging needs.
Radford University’s next president should possess a distinguished record of executive leadership while also demonstrating a commitment to scholarship, learning and discovery. The successful candidate must embrace excellence and integrity, and exhibit the leadership abilities required to achieve the University’s vision. The desired leader should have a proven track record for building an accomplished, talented and diverse senior leadership team. Experience in securing funding from multiple sources is required. The next president of Radford University will be a proven collaborative and entrepreneurial leader and a successful manager of people and programs. The next president must demonstrate a responsible administrative leadership approach and a collegial and transparent leadership style.
The ability and enthusiasm to connect with business, government and community leaders and a willingness to spend a considerable percentage of time and energy on external relations are critical. With $68 million already raised of a recently announced $100 million capital campaign, demonstrated skill as a successful fundraiser will be a distinct advantage, and the personal qualities of the successful relationship builder – including exceptional communication skills – are absolutely required. Additional skills and experience that are highly preferred are: dealing with accreditation agencies, soliciting grants, developing international programming, creating new programs and direct experience dealing with advisory or governing boards.
How to Apply
Greenwood/Asher & Associates, Inc. is assisting Radford University in this search. Applications and nominations are now being accepted. For a full application package, please include a cover letter, CV and list of five references. Confidential inquiries, nominations and application materials should be directed to Greenwood/Asher and Associates. Submission of application materials as PDF attachments is strongly encouraged. The search will be conducted with a commitment to confidentiality for candidates. Initial screening of applications will begin immediately and will continue until an appointment is made.
Inquiries, nominations and application materials should be directed to:
Betty Turner Asher, Founder and Vice President & Managing Partner, Kelly
Julie Holley, Senior Executive Search Consultant
E-mail: bettyasher@greenwoodsearch.com
E-mail: julieholley@greenwoodsearch.com
For more information about Radford University, please visit:
Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.
This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.