Arkansas State University Mid-South - Chancellor

For best consideration, complete applications should be received by August 22, 2026. All submitted applications and materials are subject to Arkansas FOIA.

Complete information is available on the Search Profile.

Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis seeks an experienced, visionary higher education professional with demonstrated executive leadership to serve as Chancellor. The Chancellor must embody the community-focused, learner-first culture that defines the college today while embracing a community engagement mission that builds connections among students and employees internally, and leaders, businesses and organizations externally.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the President of the Arkansas State University System, the Chancellor serves as the chief executive officer of the college. The Chancellor is responsible for overall planning, resource allocation, program evaluation, and the administration of campus affairs of ASU Mid-South. The Chancellor must embody the community-focused, student-first culture that defines the college today, while having the vision, energy, and communication skills to grow programs, deepen partnerships, and ensure the college is aligned with regional workforce and education needs, and advance the institution to create outcomes that advance the people and communities it serves. The Chancellor must be present, authentic, and adaptable, with a clear respect for the institution’s past and a strategic vision for its future.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Terminal Degree: A Ph.D., Ed.D., or other terminal degree in a relevant field • Leadership: Executive-level leadership in higher education (vice chancellor or vice president level; 2-year or 4-year institution) • Community College Experience: Experience in a community college setting in administration, teaching, or student services, and knowledge of dual enrollment, career and technical education (CTE), or non-credit programs • External Relations and Fundraising: Experience with community engagement, government relations, partnership development, or fundraising and the ability to work with foundations, legislators, and business leaders to secure resources and partnerships • Accreditation and Policy Knowledge: Familiarity with regional accreditation standards and state/federal education policies and experience leading institutions through accreditation reviews or compliance processes • Economic and Workforce Development: Demonstrated success serving as an active partner with local, state, and regional economic development organizations; experience aligning academic and workforce programs with labor market needs, supporting business and industry recruitment and expansion efforts, and leveraging partnerships to promote regional economic growth

RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Chancellor of Arkansas State University Mid-South serves as the chief executive and visionary leader of the institution, entrusted with authority to guide its daily operations and long-term growth. • The Chancellor plays a central role in shaping institutional strategy, resource allocation, and program evaluation while ensuring alignment with the ASU System’s overarching goals and policies. • The Chancellor’s leadership is to be instrumental in fostering academic excellence and student success across all programs. • The Chancellor supports and oversees faculty and staff to cultivate a thriving educational environment, driving innovation, and quality. Additionally, the Chancellor will oversee all aspects of student life, from admissions to career services, and ensure a welcoming campus culture that supports every student’s success and well-being. • Managing the financial health and operational effectiveness of the institution is a key role. The Chancellor oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with relevant policies, while also supervising facilities, procurement, and maintenance to provide a safe and inspiring physical environment. • The Chancellors role extends to personnel management, ensuring a fair and supportive workplace for faculty, staff, and administrators. • In the community, the Chancellor serves as the College’s chief ambassador, advancing fundraising, alumni engagement, community partnerships, workforce training, and economic development initiatives that expand opportunity and support the region’s long-term growth and prosperity. • The Chancellor contributes to systemwide initiatives by contributing to strategic master plans and maintaining open, transparent communication with the President and all campus constituencies.

The role of chancellor offers a unique chance to lead with impact, shaping the future of higher education in meaningful ways.

WEST MEMPHIS, ARKANSAS

Located directly across the Mississippi River from Memphis, Tennessee, West Memphis has a population of more than 24,000. Bounded to the east by the Mississippi River and both I-55 and I-40 traveling through it, West Memphis is known as the “crossroads of America” in the trucking industry.

Primarily because of its central location and transportation infrastructure, West Memphis has become a hub for distribution and assembly operations. Healthcare is a noteworthy component of the city’s economy, including Baptist Memorial Hospital, various clinics, medical suppliers, and nursing homes located in town. Some of the major employers in the city include Schneider National Carriers, Southland Casino Hotel, Family Dollar Distribution, Consolidated, FedEx Freight, Google, and Robert Bosch Power Tools. A deepwater port, West Memphis facilitates transloading among trucks, barges, and trains.

Most of West Memphis is served by the West Memphis School District while a portion of the is within the Marion School District. While there are many public schools in West Memphis, there are also several private schools as well.

West Memphis, Arkansas, offers a welcoming community rich in cultural heritage and outdoor recreation, making it an inviting place to live. Situated along the scenic Mississippi River, residents enjoy fishing, boating, and walking or biking through nearby parks and trails. The city also hosts lively festivals and events that celebrate its deep blues music roots, honoring legends like B.B. King. With affordable living, a close-knit atmosphere, and easy access to the amenities of nearby Memphis, West Memphis provides a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and convenient urban connection.