Salus at Drexel University

Dean, Pennsylvania College of Optometry

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) seeks an inspirational, transparent, and empathetic academic executive for the dean position. Founded in 1919, PCO is one of the oldest and most respected optometry schools in the United States. After adding the Osborne College of Audiology and a College of Health Sciences, Education and Rehabilitation (CHER), including a physician assistant program, it founded Salus University in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, in 2008 to accommodate a broad range of health sciences programs. PCO is known for its pioneering clinical education, integrating hands-on patient care early in the curriculum and centered in the community at The Eye Institute and other clinical sites. The College continues to lead in optometric education, preparing students for evolving roles in primary eye care and advanced medical management of ocular conditions. Salus University, now Salus at Drexel University as part of a merger process, PCO is set to become the 17th college of Drexel University, an R1 research institution of over 21,000 students, including over 7,800 graduate students in Philadelphia.

This is an exciting and pivotal time to lead the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO). The next dean has a unique opportunity to drive meaningful impact and transformation at a highly respected institution. The dean will navigate a dynamic landscape in higher education and optometric education, addressing challenges such as sustaining strong enrollment, financial stability, and academic excellence. Following its recent merger with Drexel University, PCO is poised for growth with access to Drexel’s vast resources and facilities. This presents distinct opportunities to enhance the curriculum, expand interdisciplinary research, and advance interprofessional clinical care. With deep and lasting connections to the community and a global reach, PCO is well-positioned to strengthen its impact. Now is the moment for a visionary and experienced leader—one with a deep understanding of optometric education, research, and clinical care—to inspire the PCO community and chart a bold path forward.

Reporting to Drexel Provost Paul Jensen, the dean will address key priorities across all mission areas. The dean will focus on enhancing the curriculum to ensure it is comprehensive and current, promoting effective teaching strategies, and equipping students for success on national board exams and in their careers. The dean will link academic programs, clinical care, and research to provide students with exceptional experiences and advance the field. They will form partnerships with colleagues across Drexel to further interprofessional collaboration. Operationally, the dean will work to streamline processes related to faculty workload and resource allocation. Finally, prioritizing trust and communication with students, faculty, and staff will help cultivate an inclusive and positive environment where discussion is highly valued and continuous improvement is the norm.

The successful candidate will possess a strong background in academia with a strong preference for experience with optometric education and leadership of the optometric profession. The dean will be an effective communicator, an excellent relationship builder, and a leader who energetically pursues opportunities that advance PCO’s impact and excellence. They will be a thoughtful and decisive leader who can navigate complex organizational structures, particularly during the ongoing merger with Drexel, and execute a strategic plan that ensures robust student enrollment, strong board scores, and a sense of belonging and pride in the PCO community. Additionally, they will actively engage with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.

TO APPLY

Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, has been retained to assist in this search. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Applications must include a CV and cover letter. Applications, inquiries, and nominations should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller website.

Amy Segal, Partner

Tiffany Weber, Managing Associate

Olivia McVicker, Managing Search Coordinator

Isaacson, Miller

Apply online: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/pennsylvania-college-optometry-salus-drexel-university/dean

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