Dean & Chief Academic Officer (Chicago)

Job Description:

The Colleges of Law, a respected member of The Community Solution Education System, is seeking a visionary and student-centered Dean and Chief Academic Officer to guide the next chapter of the institution’s evolution. Known for its commitment to affordability, access, and innovation in legal education, The Colleges of Law offers both hybrid and online Juris Doctor (J.D.) programs and is expanding to include a new campus in Pasadena. This is an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic leader to make a significant impact on the future of legal education, leveraging a strong foundation of academic excellence, community partnerships, and data-driven strategy.

Application Process & Deadline

This search is being conducted exclusively by AristaHire . Interested candidates should apply by emailing with the subject line:

Application package must include:

• A cover letter outlining your vision and alignment with the institution’s mission

• A comprehensive CV

• Contact information for three professional references (references will not be contacted without permission)

Application Deadline: June 20, 2025
Preferred Start Date: August 18, 2025

Candidates will receive a response within 72 hours of submission.

Key Responsibilities

The Dean and Chief Academic Officer will serve as the academic and strategic leader of The Colleges of Law, overseeing campuses in Ventura and Santa Barbara , with planned expansion into Pasadena . Responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership

• Drive alignment with the institution’s mission of access and opportunity

• Lead the academic planning for campus expansion

• Proactively manage accreditation, policy, and legal education trends

• Collaborate with The Community Solution leadership to develop cross-disciplinary pathways

Academic Excellence

• Oversee curriculum innovation, bar exam preparation, and academic quality

• Integrate legal tech, AI, and contemporary practice into instruction

• Promote interdisciplinary and hybrid teaching excellence

Student Success

• Strengthen bar pass rates, career readiness, and experiential learning

• Expand student access through community partnerships and clear transfer pathways

• Lead student engagement, mentorship, and inclusion efforts

Faculty Development

• Recruit seasoned legal professionals to the classroom

• Provide robust support and training for full-time and adjunct faculty

• Foster a collaborative, unified faculty culture

Community & External Relations

• Deepen ties with legal and civic partners in the region

• Advocate for CALS institutions and regulatory protections

• Monitor and respond to financial aid, accreditation, and policy shifts

Compensation and Benefits Salary Range: $180,000 – $220,000 (based on qualifications and experience)
Performance Bonus: Up to 15% of base salary tied to institutional and individual SMART goals
Location: Ventura and Santa Barbara campuses, with expansion oversight for PasadenaBenefits Highlights:

• Comprehensive health insurance plans (PPO, HMO, HDHP with HSA)

• Dental and vision coverage

• Employer-paid life and disability insurance

• Voluntary benefits: critical illness, accident insurance, long-term care

• Retirement and wellness benefits (details provided during interview)

Compensation & Benefits This opportunity is budgeted at $180,000-220,000 base compensation. Additional compensation factors may impact total compensation. To learn more about our competitive benefits and additional rewards, including generous paid time-off, medical and dental insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement plan with employer contribution, multiple flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, click the link below.

The Community Solution is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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