DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEAN

The Dean of the Chicago College of Optometry is the chief academic officer responsible for the development and implementation of all academic and clinical programs for the College. The Dean provides leadership in optometric professional education and practice, including research, scholarly activities, and service.  The Dean must unite and inspire the faculty, staff, preceptors, and students toward achievement of the College’s mission and goals. The Dean establishes short- and long-range goals, objectives, plans, and procedures for the College and oversees all operational activities.  The Dean collaborates with the other administrative team members of the University and fosters activities in the best interest of the College and University.  The Dean represents the College to all external audiences, including state and national optometry organizations.   The Dean reports directly to the Sr. Vice President and Chief Academic Officer for operational matters, and to the President and Chief Executive Officer for strategic planning.  The Dean serves as a member of the University’s Administrative Team.

Principal duties

1. Plan, direct, coordinate, and evaluate all academic activities and assessments of the College of Optometry in order to ensure that Midwestern University’s Mission is effectively implemented and that the College is compliant with accreditation standards.
2. Lead the self-study process and other report preparation as required by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education.
3. Foster interdisciplinary education as it pertains to the College of Optometry.
4. Coordinate the activities of various University support services to best meet the College’s needs.
5. Participate with other College leaders to recruit and retain a high quality faculty, manage departmental budgets, and ensure fiscal viability for the College.
6. Work with the University Admission office to admit a qualified, competitive class of students each year.
7. Supervise the development of a variety of patient care services in a Midwestern University Eye Institute that it can provide high quality educational experiences for third and fourth year students.
8. Manage the finances of the College of Optometry including the preparation of annual capital, salary, and operating budgets.
9. Maintain a productive research and scholarly activity plan for the College of Optometry.
10. Create a college culture and climate that is conducive to successful faculty recruitment and retention, that fosters professionalism in faculty and students, and promotes the importance of scholarly activity among the faculty.
11. Initiate organizational changes as required for appropriate development and growth of the College.
12. Supervise fundraising activities for the College and increase the amount of scholarship funds available for students, in conjunction with the Vice President, University Relations.
13. Annually update a strategic plan for the College of Optometry that addresses the educational, physical, personnel, equipment, and financial resources needed to educate, train, and graduate superior optometrists.
14. Oversee College-sponsored student activities and special events.
15. Foster collaborative relationships that promote educational, service, and scholarly collaborations among the Midwestern University colleges.
16. Guide the development of a post graduate residency program in optometry.
17. Participate in and show leadership at external meetings of state, regional, and national optometry organizations that establish and maintain attitudes of confidence, respect, and support within and for the College of Optometry and Midwestern University.
18. Perform other duties as directed by the President and Chief Executive Officer or the Sr. Vice President and Chief Academic Officer.

Minimum Requirements:

Doctor of Optometry degree from ACOE-accredited college of optometry, eligible for optometrist licensure in Illinois or has optometrist license in Illinois, completion of an optometry residency or commensurate experience, 5 years of administrative experience at a college of optometry, and eligible for appointment at faculty rank in tenure or non-tenure track. 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans as well as life insurance, short/long term disability and pet insurance.  We offer flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.  We offer a work life balance with competitive time off package including paid holiday’s, sick/flex days, personal days and vacation days.  We offer a 403(b) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, child care subsidy reimbursement program, identity theft protection and an employee assistance program.  Wellness is important to us and we offer a wellness facility on-site with a fully equipped fitness facility. 

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws, including 41 C.F.R. 60-1.4(a), 250.5(a), 300.5(a) and 741.5(a). Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/).  Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.

Doctor of Optometry degree from ACOE-accredited college of optometry, eligible for optometrist licensure in Illinois or has optometrist license in Illinois, completion of an optometry residency or commensurate experience, 5 years of administrative experience at a college of optometry, and eligible for appointment at faculty rank in tenure or non-tenure track.