About the Role
Sinte Gleska University is seeking a dynamic person to work as Vice President of Academic Affairs, who leads all teaching, learning, and curriculum, focusing on culturally relevant education, accreditation, faculty development, student success (especially for Indigenous students), community partnerships (tribes, employers), and managing academic budgets and resources, ensuring programs align with tribal needs and higher education standards. This position is responsible for all academic departments, as well as programs and grants that support academic efforts. In addition, any programs at additional locations are supervised by this position.
The Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA) is the chief academic officer for the college and accountable for the over-all academic direction of the College, the management and development of all faculty (full-time and adjunct) and the administration of all certification and degree granting educational programs. The VPAA promotes and assesses scholarly activity and has oversight of the library services. The VPAA assures that TMCC adheres to the accreditation criteria of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) as well as the department of public instruction of South Dakota. This entails directing the development, implementation, administration, evaluation and assessment of all programs of study to maintain educational relevancy and quality. The VPAA maintains engagement with all higher education entities in South Dakota to keep abreast of trend.
Requirements
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
To hold instructors and departments responsible for their department functions and budgets, meeting student needs, and student success (as measured by multiple indicators).
To encourage action research and service by instructional staff for the purpose of enhancing student achievement.
To direct goal setting and priorities within the scope of the university mission, to facilitate the long range planning of the university.
To communicate with all departments for the development of academic programs to meet the needs, competencies and objectives of students.
To lead the design and development of instructional innovations appropriate for SGU students.
To lead in the development of research and identification of needs, objectives and activities to improve the instructional programs in the university.
To be responsible for the overall curriculum development and instructional delivery systems in use.
To serve the mission, objectives and strategies of Sinte Gleska University, achieving Lakota self-determination, student success, and growth of the college; this includes maintaining accreditation through appropriate national and international accrediting agencies.
Oversee Program Review processes and assure academic compliance with accrediting agencies.
Oversee and approve professional development activities for faculty in cooperation with academic department chairs.
Represent academic division in Presidents Council meetings.
Certification Officer.
Other duties as assigned.
Areas of Job Accountability and Performance:
Maintain a schedule of classroom observations and individual faculty member evaluations and oversee faculty development.
The VPAA must have strong interpersonal skills.
The position requires exceptional program evaluation and assessment development techniques, as applied to students, faculty, and instruction.
Evaluate faculty job descriptions, course syllabi, audit course content, and instructor performance on an annual basis.
Facilitate the recruitment, employment, evaluation and retention of quality instructional personnel. • Complete required reports as necessary such as board reports, grant reports, etc.
Lead the development and implementation of program evaluation and learning assessment methodologies. Prepare course schedules with the assistance of the faculty, registrar and Dean of Students.
Responsible for publication of the college catalog.
Responsible for the assessment of student learning.
Promote and assess all scholarly student and faculty activities.
Appoint, in cooperation with the president, academic committees as needed to accomplish various tasks. Collaborate with grant writing of relevant proposals.
Responsible for providing appropriate professional development for faculty.
Ensures a strong faculty-student advising program.
Responsible for library oversight.
Facilitate staff and faculty meetings.
Attend meetings as required such as staff, faculty, and Board of Directors meetings.
About the Company
Sinte Gleska University (SGU) is a tribally controlled, accredited institution located on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in Mission, South Dakota. Founded to serve the Sicangu Lakota Nation, SGU is dedicated to providing accessible, culturally grounded higher education that empowers students, families, and communities.
Rooted in the Lakota philosophy of Wolakota—living in harmony and balance—SGU integrates academic excellence with Indigenous knowledge, language, and values. The University offers a range of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers, leadership, and lifelong learning.
As a community-focused institution, SGU plays a vital role in strengthening tribal sovereignty, supporting economic development, and preserving Lakota culture for future generations. Faculty and staff are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment that reflects both traditional teachings and modern educational practices.
Joining SGU means becoming part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a healthy, resilient tribal nation through education, self-determination, and visionary leadership.