Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, Law School

About the role

The Duke University School of Law Office of Student Affairs is seeking a collaborative and student-centered Assistant Dean for Student Affairs to provide strategic leadership for programs, services, and initiatives that support the academic success, personal development, and overall student experience of Duke Law students. Reporting to the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs, you will play a vital role in shaping an inclusive and engaging law school community while partnering with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and university colleagues. In this leadership position, you will oversee a broad portfolio that includes student engagement and leadership development, orientation, accessibility accommodations, student organizations, student advising, student conduct, commencement, wellness initiatives, and other student affairs programs. You will serve as a trusted resource for students while guiding efforts that foster community, belonging, professional growth, and student success throughout the law school experience. You will have the opportunity to lead major student programs and collaborate across Duke University to ensure students are supported both inside and outside the classroom. This role combines strategic planning, student advocacy, team leadership, program development, and operational management in support of the Law School's educational mission and commitment to student development.

Responsibilities

• Oversee student engagement and leadership development, orientation, accessibility accommodations, student organizations, student advising, student conduct, commencement, wellness initiatives, and other student affairs programs.
• Serve as a trusted resource for students and guide efforts that foster community, belonging, professional growth, and student success.
• Lead major student programs and collaborate across Duke University to support students inside and outside the classroom.
• Combine strategic planning, student advocacy, team leadership, program development, and operational management to support the Law School's educational mission.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree (master's or doctorate) preferred.

Experience: Minimum 5 years' experience in a university setting with broad knowledge of higher education and specific knowledge of issues related to graduate education.

Qualifications

• JD degree plus 5 years' experience working in law school administration, especially in student services, and the practice of law preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and implement complex University and Law School academic requirements, policies, and procedures.
• Strong organizational, project management, and administrative skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and writing abilities.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and effectively manage sensitive student matters.
• Experience building collaborative relationships with students, faculty, staff, university administrators, and external partners.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively under pressure while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with common business and productivity software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation applications.