Job Details

Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management Washburn University
Transform Enrollment. Empower Access. Inspire the Future.
Washburn University, a thriving, open-access public institution with a rich history of serving students across a spectrum of programs and credentials, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the role of Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management (VPSEM). This senior executive position offers a transformational leader the opportunity to shape the future of enrollment at a university boldly advancing a student-centered, mission-driven vision.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Washburn is enjoying record-breaking momentum in enrollment and institutional reputation. With a 160-year history, 7,500 students, over 200 academic programs, and strong regional impact, Washburn is committed to expanding access, enhancing learner success, and building powerful academic and community partnerships. The University is proudly home to:
Record enrollment growth over the past two years
A nationally recognized Washburn Tech for technical education
One of only two law schools in Kansas
A newly launched strategic plan, Thriving Together, focused on bold innovation
A new integrated health sciences facility and expanding infrastructure to meet workforce needs
Designation as a Great College to Work For in 2024
Leading this dynamic environment is President JuliAnn Mazachek, a visionary and inclusive leader known for courageous innovation, student-first philosophy, and a commitment to data-informed, collaborative leadership. The VPSEM will report directly to President Mazachek and serve as a key member of her senior leadership cabinet.
THE ROLE
The Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management will serve as the universitys chief enrollment officer, responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive, data-driven strategy that supports the full student journeyfrom recruitment to retentionacross Washburn University and Washburn Tech.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead enrollment planning, forecasting, recruitment, and financial aid optimization across campuses
Oversee undergraduate, international, and high school enrollment, admissions, financial services, and enrollment analytics
Support graduate and law enrollment efforts through collaborative partnerships with academic deans
Serve as a cross-functional strategistpartnering with academic affairs, student life, marketing, finance, and IT
Expand student pipelines through innovative initiatives including dual enrollment, workforce partnerships, adult and non-traditional pathways
Advance equity, access, and student success through strategic aid packaging and mission-aligned policies
Champion the use of CRM, SIS, digital marketing, AI tools, and emerging technologies to drive recruitment and retention
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
Masters degree in higher education administration, business, marketing, or a related field
At least 7 years of demonstrated leadership success as an innovator in enrollment management
Preferred:
Doctorate in higher education, business, or related field
Experience across a range of student populations, including first-generation, transfer, international, and adult learners
The Ideal Candidate Will Demonstrate:
A bold and creative approach to enrollment growth and student success
Expertise in enrollment analytics, forecasting, and financial aid modeling
Proven ability to build effective cross-divisional and community partnerships
A servant-leadership mindset that empowers teams and advances institutional mission
Familiarity with the evolving regulatory and demographic landscape impacting higher education
WHY WASHBURN?
This is a unique opportunity to serve at a forward-looking university that is financially sound, independently governed, and deeply committed to access and affordability. With a robust $260M endowment, low student-faculty ratios, and nationally recognized student success programming, Washburn is well-positioned to thrive amid disruption and opportunity in higher education.
As VPSEM, youll have the opportunity to:
Shape strategy with direct access to the president
Lead from strengthamid historic enrollment gains and community momentum
Drive innovative, analytics-driven enrollment practices with campus-wide support
Champion Washburns mission to serve diverse student populations and expand opportunity in the region
LIVING IN TOPEKA Located in the heart of the state, Topeka, Kansas offers a vibrant and affordable lifestyle with access to nature, culture, arts, and family-friendly attractions. As the state capital, Topeka is home to a thriving business community, a flourishing arts and culinary scene, and strong K-12 and healthcare systems. With outdoor recreation, history, and innovation all within reach, its no wonder Washburn alumni and faculty proudly call Topeka home.
APPLICATIONS & NOMINATIONS
Washburn University is partnering with Anthem Executive to lead this national search. To ensure full consideration, please submit your materials at your earliest opportunity.
Submit nominations and application materials (a letter of interest and a CV) in confidence to:
...@AnthemExecutive.com
Washburn University is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment. The University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or marital/parental status.
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