Pacific School of Religion
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean
PSR is seeking a Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean to help shape the future of theological education. At
a time of significant change in higher education and faith communities, the Dean will provide educational,
intellectual, innovative, and administrative leadership for a diverse faculty and student body committed to
preparing theologically and spiritually rooted leaders for social transformation – both within and beyond the
church.
With strong academic credentials and a proven commitment to the work of justice, the Dean will be a full member
of the faculty (field open), joining PSR’s vision in his/her scholarship, teaching and service, and working
collaboratively to make theological education more engaged, accessible, and sustainable -- particularly in
partnership with under-represented communities. PSR is poised to create an even more dynamic learning
environment that leverages the diversity of its community and partners, advances rich academic pedagogy, ignites
social transformation through scholarship and innovation, and fosters boundary-spanning leadership. The Dean
will play a central role in shaping and implementing this dynamic change strategy.
Pacific School of Religion (PSR) is a progressive, multi-denominational seminary and center for social justice that
prepares spiritually -rooted leaders to work for the well-being of all people and creation. Reflecting the
interreligious and multiethnic reality of the world, PSR develops and connects individuals engaged in faith-based
leadership and social activism through rigorous scholarship, practical training and immersive fieldwork, preparing
them for ongoing service including pastoral ministry, non-profit and civic leadership, and public policy. PSR is a
member of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU), an interfaith consortium of seminaries and institutes in the San
Francisco Bay Area. PSR is a non-profit founded in 1866 and is located in Berkeley, California.
We are seeking candidates with demonstrated commitment to diversity, academic excellence, community
building, and meaningful connection with historically under-represented groups of people and institutions.
Applicants will need to submit a curriculum vitae, three professional references (none will be contacted without
explicit prior permission), and a cover letter that includes (a) the applicant's understanding of PSR's mission and
vision (b) administrative and supervisory experience in a climate of change and transition (c) experiences working
with people of diverse cultures and identities (c) experiences working among varied constituencies (d) work in
social change making (e) statement of teaching philosophy and research agenda. These materials can be sent to
deansearch@psr.edu or to Dr. Mary Donovan Turner, Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Ave., Berkeley, CA
94709.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Preference will be given to
applications received prior to September 30, 2015. The new Dean is expected to take office on or about June 1,
2016. For details visit www.psr.edu/deansearch. Nominators and prospective candidates may direct inquiries or
questions to Mary Donovan Turner, search committee co-chair, at deansearch@psr.edu.