Job description
Rivier University in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the Division of Counseling and Psychology. Rivier University seeks an experienced student-centered educator and strategic administrator who will lead and support divisional directors and faculty. The successful candidate should have significantly broad experience in the programs and initiatives incorporated within the Division, an understanding of the larger higher education landscape, and the ability to articulate Rivier’s role in the preparation of the next generation of the behavioral health workforce. The Dean will provide leadership for professional development in the model of practitioner-scholar and will continue the division’s emphasis on clinical skills and techniques with technology rich in instruction.
The Dean will be charged with the hiring, evaluation, and assessment of full-time and adjunct faculty, refinement of the curriculum in collaboration with faculty, and support for student engagement and advising. The Dean of Counseling and Psychology will work to ensure that the division utilizes current resources and coordinates policies and practices.
The Division of Counseling and Psychology encompasses three degree levels including an undergraduate program in psychology; graduate programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a M.Ed. in School Counseling and a recently APA accredited doctoral program in Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D).
This is a 12-month, full-time administrative, on-campus position with an annual teaching load of 6 credits at the graduate level and advising doctoral student’s scholarly projects. The Dean will report to the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Key Responsibilities:
Administrative Leadership:
- Ensure that the University’s Mission of “transforming hearts and minds to serve the world” is respected and promoted throughout the Counseling and Psychology Division.
- Develop strategic initiatives for the Division.
- Participate in long-term planning and policy setting.
- Provide innovative leadership designed to strengthen the counseling and psychology workforce development initiatives.
- Manage administrative functions within the Division of Counseling and Psychology.
- Convene an external Advisory Board to promote communication among stakeholders.
- Maintain a visible presence on campus and within the greater Nashua community.
Academic Leadership:
- Recruit, support, assess, and expand a diverse faculty and adjunct faculty pool.
- Support curriculum development and assessment especially as related to the undergraduate and graduate academic programs.
- Meet regularly with Program Directors and faculty within the Division.
- Assure compliance with NECHE and APA standards.
- Train, direct and work closely with the divisional administrative assistants to ensure effective office management.
- Work closely with Enrollment Management and assist in student recruitment.
- Work with the University grant writers to secure funding as appropriate.
- Promote institutional assessment and improvement.
- Support faculty development opportunities and complete performance appraisals.
- Evaluate course scheduling and faculty workload distribution.
- Serve as a member of the Dean’s Council.
Qualifications:
The successful candidate must have an earned doctorate from an APA-accredited program in Counseling, School or Clinical Psychology or closely related field. The successful candidate will have a clearly expressed desire to contribute to the program goals and the University’s mission at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Education: Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field. Academic background eligible for the rank of associate professor.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in higher education administration, with a focus on counseling programs including teaching, budgeting, curriculum development, policies and process, and supervision of faculty. Possess knowledge of accreditation, assessment, and curriculum development.
- Licensed or license eligible as a professional counselor in New Hampshire.
- Skills: Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively with across administrative unites. Knowledge of accreditation standards and processes. Teaching and advising experience at the graduate level. Competence in using technology for educational and administrative purposes.
- Learning Modalities: Experience with online and hybrid program delivery.
Introduction to Rivier University
Rivier University is a four-year, Catholic institution that welcomes students from all backgrounds and provides a transformative and supportive educational experience. Located in Nashua, New Hampshire, Rivier was founded by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary and Sister Madeleine of Jesus in 1933. Throughout its history, the University has been dedicated to providing a learning environment that educates the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Our graduates excel professionally, academically, and in service to their communities. Rivier’s 68-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, labs, athletic fields, and student resources.
The University offers liberal education and programs of professional practice at both the undergraduate and graduate level to -2,700 students. The core mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world is actualized in undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral programs. Rivier recruits for 60 academic programs including doctoral degrees in Leadership and Learning (Ed.D.), Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D.), and Nursing Practice (DNP).
About the Division of Counseling and Psychology:
The Division of Counseling and Psychology offers a variety of degree programs and licensure via on-campus and online modalities for prospective therapists, counselors, and psychologists. Degrees are offered at the undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral levels. Supporting the critical need for behavioral health professionals, the Department engages students at all academic levels. A focus on experiential learning is evident in coursework, as well as internship and practicum opportunities. These experiences enable students to connect theory with practice in real-world settings.
About Nashua, New Hampshire
Nashua, New Hampshire has been voted the “Best Place to Live in America” twice by Money magazine, and it’s easy to see why. In 2024, Nashua earned the No. 1 spot on WalletHub’s “10 Safest Cities in America” list, reinforcing its reputation as a community-focused city with a strong quality of life. Nashua is centrally located in the heart of New England, with an easy drive to beaches, mountains, and major metropolitan areas. Located 45 minutes from Boston and 30 minutes from Manchester, Nashua is close to a wealth of cultural, professional, and recreational destinations. Residents enjoy access to a variety of restaurants, parks, local shops, and events, along with outdoor options like Mine Falls Park, which offers scenic trails and kayaking routes right in the city. The city’s economy is diverse, with a healthy mix of service and high-tech companies providing a strong employment base and plenty of options for career growth, internships, and professional development.
How to apply
All correspondence relating to the position of Dean of the Division of Counseling and Psychology at Rivier University should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:
Christopher Healy, President
Scott Healy & Associates
A complete application should include the following:
1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)
Applications received by September 15, 2025 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.
Rivier University is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Rivier University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran or marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in admission or access to, treatment in or employment in its programs and activities. Additionally, Title IX requires that the University not discriminate on the bases stated above.
