The Arkansas State University System invites nominations and applications for its next President. The Board of Trustees seeks a dynamic, innovative, and inspirational leader to advance higher education in the state of Arkansas and to advocate for the System and its institutions.
Based in Little Rock, the state capital and home to major employers in healthcare, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and other industries, the Arkansas State University (ASU) System provides a wide range of degree and certificate programs. The System serves as a leading voice on state higher education issues and contributes to the educational, cultural, and economic advancement of the state and region. With physical campuses in Arkansas and Queretaro, Mexico – as well as a robust catalog of online offerings – the ASU System serves nearly 39,000 students annually. The System employs 3,725 faculty and staff and has a total operating budget of $314.4 million for Fiscal Year 2026.
The ASU System includes Arkansas State University, a four-year Carnegie R2 research institution in Jonesboro, with degree centers at ASU-Beebe, ASU-Mountain Home, and ASU Mid-South; Arkansas State University Campus Queretaro, which opened in September 2017; and Henderson State University, a four-year institution in Arkadelphia, which joined the System in February 2021. The System’s two-year college institutions include: ASU-Beebe, with additional campuses in Heber Springs and Searcy and an instructional site at Little Rock Air Force Base; ASU-Newport,with additional campuses in Jonesboro and Marked Tree; ASU-Mountain Home; ASU Mid-South; and ASU Three Rivers (formerly College of the Ouachitas).
The next President of the ASU System will bring a successful track record of leadership, demonstrating the ability to work in collaboration with the Board of Trustees, System leaders, and campus executives to sustain the momentum of the past decade. Among the desired characteristics of the new President are: progressive, successful executive level experience with a track record of building strong, efficient, and vibrant organizations; the ability to understand, appreciate, and embrace the culture, mission, and special characteristics of Arkansas; the ability to build strong relationships with board members, system leaders, chancellors, donors, alumni, and external support groups; possession of keen political acumen; a record of friendraising and fundraising success; knowledge of academic programming, accreditation, enrollment management, athletics, and the importance of appropriate campus facilities; and experience with public and private industry partnerships.
The successful candidate will have an earned doctorate or recognized terminal degree and/or significant senior-level leadership experience in higher education and/or the private or public sector.
How to apply: A confidential discussion about the position is recommended before submitting an application and may be arranged by contacting Justin Allen at Wright Lindsey Jennings at (501) 212-1220. To apply, candidates should prepare a letter of interest that addresses desired qualities, characteristics and experiences outlined, as well as a current curriculum vitae. Application materials should be sent to Jeff Hankins at the ASU System Office, jhankins@asusystem.edu. Review of applications will begin on May 18 and will continue until the position is filled.
Note that completed applications are subject to public disclosure through an Arkansas Freedom of Information Act request and applicants cannot be guaranteed confidentiality of their candidacy once a completed application is submitted.
The Arkansas State University System does not discriminate on the basis of color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, national origin, religion, marital status, veteran status, genetic information or disability in any of its practices, policies or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, employment, admissions, educational services, programs, or activities which it operates, or financial aid.