Iḷisaġvik College Seeks Dean, Strengthen Iñupiaq Centered Curriculum

Iḷisaġvik College opened a search for a Dean of Academic Affairs with a posting on December 3, 2025 that outlines a leadership role focused on strengthening academic programs and student success. The position is on site in Utqiagvik and reports to the college president. It is a full time, exempt role with a Monday through Friday schedule from 8 30 a.m. to 5 00 p.m. Compensation is listed at $127,729 per year depending on experience, plus benefits.

The dean will provide academic leadership across curriculum design, faculty development, program delivery and assessment. The posting emphasizes advancing a culturally grounded Iñupiaq centered curriculum and supporting accreditation and regulatory compliance. Those responsibilities include overseeing program quality and assessment practices that affect how courses are delivered, how faculty are supported and how student outcomes are measured.

For local residents, the hire could have practical consequences beyond the campus. Community colleges in the North Slope serve as crucial pathways to careers in education, public service and the health and community services sectors. A dean who prioritizes Iñupiaq centered learning and student success initiatives can influence the readiness of graduates for local jobs, reinforce language and cultural education, and sustain programs that partner with regional employers and health systems.

Accreditation and regulatory compliance are also central to program continuity and to eligibility for federal and state funding that supports student aid and workforce development. Ensuring stable academic leadership can help protect those resources and maintain program offerings that residents rely on for training and advancement.

The posting directs candidates to the college employment application process and lists duties, minimum qualifications and Human Resources contact information. As the college moves through recruitment, community members, educators and regional employers will be watching how the new dean shapes priorities around culturally centered education and workforce pathways. Strengthening those connections can support health equity, local capacity and long term community resilience across the North Slope.