University of Detroit Mercy
Dean, School of Law

The University of Detroit Mercy invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of the School of Law. As Michigan's largest, most comprehensive private University, the University of Detroit Mercy is an independent Catholic institution of higher education sponsored by the Religious Sisters of Mercy and Society of Jesus. The University seeks qualified candidates who will contribute to the University's mission, diversity, and excellence of its academic community. The University of Detroit Mercy is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer with a diverse faculty and student body and welcomes persons of all backgrounds.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL OF LAW: Founded in 1912, the School of Law is located in the heart of Detroit's downtown, near state and federal courthouses, major law firms and government agencies, and several of the fifteen Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the metropolitan area. It is housed in two historic structures, including a former firehouse that is home to its renowned Clinical Law Program. The School of Law's innovative curriculum integrates theory, doctrine, and practice through its nationally recognized Legal Writing Program and the Law Firm Program. The School also emphasizes ethics and service to others through its extensive Clinical Law Program and the Public Interest Fellowship Program. The School is located near the border between the United States and Canada. In addition to offering the standard J.D. and a joint JD/MBA degree, the School of Law offers dual degrees with universities in Canada and Mexico.

JOB DESCRIPTION: As its chief academic officer and administrative leader, the Dean reports to the Provost and works in partnership with the faculty, staff and others in advancing the mission of the School. The Dean's responsibilities include all matters related to the administration of the School and its programs, faculty and student relations, alumni affairs and resource development. The Dean represents the School of Law within the University and fosters professional relationships with an active advisory board.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate will be an inspired leader and skilled administrator who recognizes the challenges facing legal education and the changing legal environment and can foster a curriculum to face those challenges. The Dean will be a proven fundraiser; committed to experiential education producing practice-ready graduates; an outstanding communicator and listener; able to work collaboratively; a strong advocate for Jesuit and Mercy ethical and social justice values; and able to attract diverse and highly qualified faculty, administrators and students. The candidate should be eligible for tenure as a professor.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: The school's website at http://www.law.udmercy.edu has an expanded statement about the School of Law and the position of Dean. Applications should include: (1) a cover letter describing the applicant's relevant experience; (2) an essay outlining the applicant's vision for the position and for the School of Law; (3) curriculum vitae; and (4) email and phone contacts for five references as outlined in the expanded statement. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until an appointment is made. Please submit applications via the school's website. Nominations and inquiries may be addressed to Professor Stephen Vogel, Chair, School of Law Search Committee, by email at vogelsp@udmercy.edu