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Position Number: ACA20-353

College of the Canyons
Santa Clarita Community College District

announces an employment opportunity for

DEAN, ACADEMIC INNOVATION AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
An Educational Administrator Position 

New Review Date: June 3, 2021

This position is a high priority for our District for the 2020-2021 year and is contingent upon continue available district, grant and state funding.

Who We are

The Santa Clarita Community District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences — fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality and cooperation. When you join our team at the Santa Clarita Community College District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.

The College and the District

College of the Canyons is part of the Santa Clarita Community College District and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enrolling approximately 32,000 students each academic year. College of the Canyons has a diverse student population that reflects our focus on enhancing the educational attainment and economic well-being of the community we proudly serve. Detailed information about our student population, including data related to student success, can be found on the College of Canyons Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness (IRPIE) website. Additionally, College of the Canyons, was recently honored as a 2021 Bellwether College Consortium award winner, was honored in 2018 and 2019 with the Champion of Higher Education award, was ranked #1 in Los Angeles County during 2019 as the best two-year college for adult learners, and is rated #1 in Los Angeles County for completion rates by college-prepared students. It is distinguished as one of the top transfer institutions in Los Angeles County. 

Who We Want

We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. The Santa Clarita Community College District seeks leaders possessing a strong grounding in academic and student services programs and a thorough understanding of the primary mission of the community college. We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals.

"BIG PICTURE" RESPONSIBILITY:

Under the direction of the Associate Vice President of Instruction, the Dean, Academic Innovation and Continuing Education will lead a cross-functional team of college and community partners to create new and innovative curricular opportunities for students in support of continuing education, community education, adult education, inmate education, public safety training, and concurrent/dual enrollment.  This position is responsible for promoting instructional best practices through the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in support of student success.  During this evolving and uncertain time where pedagogy and andragogy must be flexible, the Dean will have the opportunity to design and lead efforts on how to best meet the ever-changing needs of our students and the workforce. Within the scope of this position, new responsibilities may be added or deleted based on District and community needs. 

Canyons Hall

ENTER ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

  1. Leads the development of new programs and curriculum in response to student and community needs while ensuring the assessment and analysis of student learning outcomes.                                                                                       
  2. Leads faculty and staff within the Division of Personal and Professional Learning to provide innovative opportunities in response to the evolving future of work based on identified needs in collaborations with the college community, employers, workforce development professionals, and community organizations. 
  1. Leads the overall operations of the Division of Personal and Professional Learning. Provides leadership and supervision to the faculty and staff of the division. Promotes a dynamic environment that encourages innovation, opportunities, and excellence across the division. 
  1. Collaborates with faculty, staff, and other administrators to support production of the Schedule of Classes using a guided pathways framework. Exercises leadership in coordinating with community partners to support the College’s Middle College High School (Academy of the Canyons), inmate education, public safety, dual enrollment, and adult education programs. 
  1. Provides leadership in concert with faculty, staff, and community partners to organize and support the College’s public safety training and inmate education programs. 
  1. Coordinates the development and production of the College Catalog and associated addenda within established timelines. 
  1. Engages College stakeholders in formulating best pedagogical and andragogical practices that promote the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in support of student access, success, and engagement. 
  1. Provides leadership to fulfill the goals specified in the District’s Strategic Plan, Educational & Facilities Master Plan, Decision Making Guide, accreditation documentation, Program and Budget reviews, division and department budgets, and other planning documentation. 
  1. Works as a part of the dynamic leadership team and assists other District administrators and their teams with reports and analysis as needed; prepares or assists with the preparation of State report requests as required. 
  1. Initiates and Coordinates the preparation of applications for federal and state grants as well as other resource procurement. Ensures proper execution of grants and prepares required reports in a timely manner. 
  1. Works creatively and cooperatively with administrators, staff and faculty of all offices in carrying out duties and responsibilities. Works closely with MIS/IT to ensure ongoing planning, implementation, and maintenance of technological hardware and software (e.g., eLumen, PebblePad). 
  1. Collaborates with the Public Information Office to develop marketing strategies designed to recruit students while promoting and marketing instructional programs to establish partnerships and linkages with business, industry, and community organizations and other educational institutions. 
  1. Serves on campus-wide committees including enrollment management, student learning outcomes/program review, program advisory groups such as the College Planning Team, the President’s Advisory Council on Budget (or PAC-B), Deans Council, Management Advisory Council, and others as required. Attends School/Division Dean meetings and participates in relevant professional organizations. 
  1. Represents the District on local, regional and statewide committees or organizations. Makes presentations at College, regional and statewide meetings regarding program innovation, outreach and student success.  
  1. Serves as night duty administrator and Incident Command System (ICS) as needed. 
  1. Performs other related duties as assigned. 

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES:

Every administrator with the College is expected to be:

  • A creative, innovative, energetic instructional leader; a technologically sophisticated professional who is skilled in various technology applications;
  • A leader who possesses interpersonal skills and qualities, including a can-do optimistic attitude, creativity, ambition, sensitivity, honesty, integrity, fairness, flexibility, a sense of humor, an entrepreneurial nature and a tolerance for ambiguity;
  • An experienced academic committed to continued improvement; a visible, accessible and collaborative educator who encourages and acknowledges the contributions of others, who is willing to be a risk taker and create an environment that is open to new ideas;
  • A supporter of consistent and on-going professional development initiatives, in pursuit of the college’s strategic goals;
  • An excellent communicator, an initiator, and anticipator;
  • A fair-minded, ethical, and honest leader with excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the courage and integrity to lead and accept responsibility;
  • A leader knowledgeable of and able to apply management theories and practices, learning theories and practices, and community college finance;
  • A capable planner who can systematically allocate resources to further institutional goals, evaluate the results of the allocations, and develop strategies for continued development; and
  • A skilled leader adept in planning for the emerging needs of the District and successful in resource generation and partnership development.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

(Requirements 1 and 2 must be met in order to qualify for the position):

Education (Requirement #1):

Possession of a master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a discipline reasonably related to the assignment, Doctorate or Ph.D. in educational leadership preferred; (See our website for evaluation requirements for units and degrees earned at foreign institutions).

Experience (Requirement #2):

Option #1: 

Two (2) years of academic administrative experience in an institution of higher education reasonably related to the assignment OR 

Option #2: 

  1. A minimum of two years of successful full-time leadership experience reasonably related to the administrator's administrative assignment; AND
  2. A minimum of one year of successful full-time experience providing leadership for a major district-level initiative/program; AND
  3. Completion of a leadership training program of at least one semester in duration.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Three (3) years recent academic or professional experience in one of the professional or related areas in continuing education, adult education, inmate education, or public safety training.
  • Demonstrated experience with course scheduling planning and development and enrollment management strategies.
  • Demonstrated experience in conducting data analysis, making reports and recommendations based on data analysis for instructional programs or services.
  • Knowledge and experience in applying State policies, rules and regulations related to course scheduling and enrollment.
  • Demonstrated experience with successful grant writing and resource procurement.
  • Demonstrated experience with short and long-term planning of projects. 
  • Demonstrated experience in collaborating with department chairs and division deans on instructional program planning and/or projects.
  • Demonstrated experience with utilizing multiple technological platforms to oversee the successful delivery of instruction.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively plan, meet deadlines and establish structures, systems, and processes to reach goals and objectives with initiative and to completion.

DEMONSTRATED KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

  • Ability to lead, implement and manage change;
  • Knowledge of the mission of California Community Colleges;
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities, through progressively more responsible positions and assignments;
  • Knowledge of matriculation procedures; and
  • Demonstrated ability to use initiative and resourcefulness in problem solving;
  • A track record of being innovative in planning, developing, and producing quality instruction and student services delivered via technology;
  • Ability to relate well and work effectively with students, faculty, staff, business and industry representatives of diverse backgrounds to achieve the college’s strategic goal of being an entrepreneurial college;
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a participatory manner with all segment of the college community and community at large;
  • Proficiency in applying technological applications to daily work;
  • Ability to interpret and uniformly implement district policies and procedures and collective bargaining agreements;
  • A commitment and sensitively to, and respect for the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, gender, cultural, disability, religious background and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty and staff as well as commitment to integrating diversity in the College’s instructional program;
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, antiracism, and universal access for all populations;
  • A heightened sense of integrity, high energy, devotion to collegiality and civility as the accepted mode of discourse, and an exceptional level of creativity and initiative;
  • Ability to manage and direct a staff with diverse responsibilities and simultaneous projects in a team environment and achieve conflict resolution;
  • Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively orally, in writing, and using technology;
  • Ability to motivate and develop staff, as well as provide a collegial work environment.

Honor Grove

SALARY PLACEMENT

This twelve (12) month per year position will be on an individual contract. Salary placement will be Range 18 of the Administrative Salary Schedule. Initial salary placement will be based on education and experience. An excellent benefit package, including medical, vision, dental, life and Section 125 is offered.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position requires sitting and viewing a computer monitor for extended periods of time plus frequent periods of standing and walking, which may include climbing staircases; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and related equipment; reaching, bending, kneeling, crawling and stooping; frequently exert 10-20 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects; hearing and speaking to communicate and provide information to others; vision to read printed material and computer monitor; handling and working with various materials and objects; and travel from site-to-site.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening. 
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
  • Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
  • Board of Trustees approval.
  • Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment.
  • Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.  The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religious creed, color, ethnic or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniformed service member status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, pregnancy, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected basis under the law.

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.

Students

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

Innovative. Collaborative. Entrepreneurial. These characteristics not only define College of the Canyons, they are embodied by the faculty, staff and administrators who make this college unique among the 116 California Community Colleges.

Established in 1969, College of the Canyons is among the fastest-growing colleges in California and the nation. It is widely recognized as a model community college for enhancing student access, success and equity. Its completion rates rank among the highest in the state. The college has established a well-deserved reputation for bolstering economic development and offering innovative career technical education responsive to industry needs.

Guided by visionary leadership, the college serves a 367-square-mile area of northern Los Angeles County that includes the dynamic, growing Santa Clarita Valley. A steady influx of new residents and businesses creates a spirit of possibilities that inspires the college to be flexible, creative and attuned to the community’s evolving needs. The growing diversity of the community is mirrored by the college, which qualifies as a Latino-serving institution.

The college’s influence in the community is best illustrated by the dozens of collaborative partnerships it has forged with local school districts, government entities and service organizations. Examples include the Performing Arts Center’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach initiative, which allows thousands of children to experience the arts each year, and Academy of the Canyons, an early/middle college high school at the Valencia campus that is ranked among the top 10 percent of high schools in the nation.

With campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country, the college offers 92 associate degree programs, including 23 associate degree for transfer (AD-T) options, as well as 71 certificate programs. Classes are offered during traditional fall and spring semesters, as well as shorter, intensive summer and winter sessions. Additional educational opportunities exist at the University Center, whose four-year colleges and universities offer approximately 30 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well certificate and credential programs.

Because of the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, local voters have approved two bond measures valued at more than $240 million since 2001. The college also secures substantial funds from the state and millions of dollars in grants each year that allow new, cutting-edge programs to be developed and facilities built to accommodate them.

Given its commitment to growth and innovation, College of the Canyons sets a new standard for what a college can achieve. It is a vital cultural, educational and economic force in the region. Join us to discover unexpected possibilities, the freedom to innovate and an opportunity to shape the future.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or for the hearing impaired TTY/TDD Line at (661)362-5178.  Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the Review Date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings.  The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite #360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

Your application is not complete until the following required materials have been uploaded online or received by the Human Resources office:

  • A District Academic application.
  • A list of six (6) references with their names, titles, business and home telephone numbers. The list should include two (2) current and two (2) former supervisors, one (1) subordinate, and one (1) community or business representative. All references (except for former supervisors) must be within the last five (5) years. References will not be contacted without the applicant’s knowledge.
  • A current detailed resume, summarizing education and experience.
  • Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties, the demonstrated knowledge, and the abilities section of this announcement. Provides specific details and examples of your direct leadership in achieving the list of minimum and desirable requirements for this position.
  • Copies of complete and legible college transcripts clearly indicating all college units earned and any degree awarded. Submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. Please see our website for the requirements for evaluation of transcripts from foreign colleges or universities.
  • Confidential Recruitment Source Information (Voluntary Survey). This is voluntary and is part of the online applicant profile separate from the application.
  • Supplemental Questionnaire. Complete the Supplemental Questions as part of your application packet.
  1. What does it mean for you to have a commitment to equity and diversity? How have you demonstrated that commitment throughout your professional career? How would you see yourself demonstrating it in the role as Dean of Academic Innovation & Continuing Education at College of the Canyons? 
  2. Please provide a concise summary of your experience overseeing the development and maintenance of new, innovative curriculum and programs as related to continuing education, inmate education, public safety training, or other related disciplines. 
  3. Describe your experience with budgeting, monitoring expenditures, grants, and other resource procurement efforts. 
  4. How have you worked with faculty, staff, and management to develop a student-centered schedule of classes using a Guided Pathways framework that allows for student access, success, and completion? 
  5. What role have you served in working with faculty, staff, and management to promote short-term and long-term instructional program planning in support of overall district strategic goals? 
  6. Describe how you have effectively collaborated and engaged with students, faculty, staff, administration, and community-based organizations in support of continuing education, inmate education, public safety training, or other related disciplines. 

Please note:

  • Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
  • Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
  • Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
  • A presentation will be required for those candidates selected for an initial interview.
  • Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:

Human Resources Office

(661) 362-3427

TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at

https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/

 

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District.  Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews the week of June 14, 2021 and conduct final interviews the week of June 21, 2021. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change. 

Position is offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled.

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