Provost & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Fayetteville State University, located in Fayetteville, NC and a constituent institution of the prestigious University of North Carolina system, is seeking an innovative, visionary, strategic, and entrepreneurial - minded educator and researcher to serve as the Provost & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

About Fayetteville State University

Founded in 1867, Fayetteville State University ( FSU; University) is a public, comprehensive, historically Black university, and is the second oldest state assisted institution in North Carolina. Since 1972, FSU has been one of 17 institutions within the broader UNC System.

Situated on a scenic campus of more 156 acres, FSU serves a diverse student population and is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and social mobility. FSU offers robust and innovative degree programs rooted in the liberal arts tradition. The university advances knowledge through the integration of teaching, learning, research, and public service. FSU strives to meet the educational, career, and personal aspirations of its students from rural, military, and other diverse backgrounds so that they are equipped with academic and practical knowledge to serve local, state, national, and global communities as enlightened citizens, globally astute leaders, and engaged solution creators.

The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs through its colleges and schools, including programs in business, education, social work, nursing, psychology, criminal justice, intelligence studies, and the sciences. FSU has many nationally ranked academic programs, including the school of nursing and online MBA. In addition to exceptional pre-professional programs, FSU has a proud tradition in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. FSU also touts phenomenal Army and Air Force ROTC programs that annually develop students into nationally ranked cadets, prepared to lead successfully in the US military.

FSU emphasizes small class sizes, personalized instruction, and faculty mentorship. Students benefit from research opportunities, internships, leadership development, and community service initiatives that prepare them for professional success and civic responsibility. The University also provides flexible learning options, including online and hybrid programs designed to meet the needs of working adults and non-traditional students.

Campus life at FSU is vibrant and student-centered, featuring numerous student organizations, Greek life, cultural events, and NCAA Division II athletics. The Broncos compete in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association ( CIAA).

With a strong legacy rooted in access and empowerment, Fayetteville State University continues to advance its mission of transforming lives through education, innovation, and service.

About the Provost

Reporting to the Chancellor, the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (Provost) serves as the Chief Academic Officer of Fayetteville State University and provides vision, leadership, and strategic direction for all academic programs and academic support units. As a key member of the University's Cabinet, the Provost is responsible for advancing academic excellence, strengthening student success outcomes, ensuring institutional effectiveness, supporting world-class faculty, and promoting FSU's mission as a premier institution committed to providing access, innovation, and regional impact.

The Provost will lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to fostering a learning environment that supports students' success for all. This role requires a highly collaborative leader capable of aligning academic priorities with institutional strategy, strengthening shared governance, building research capacity, and enhancing the academic reputation of FSU locally, nationally, and globally.

The Provost's scope of leadership and responsibility includes the four Colleges, Research & Innovation, Institutional Research & Effectiveness, Academic & Faculty Affairs, and the Library.

For more information about the position, please visit here.

Fayetteville State University has retained Buffkin/Baker executive search firm to support this recruitment.

To apply, please submit a resume and/or vita, and cover letter to: FSUProvost@buffkinbaker.com

While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration as review of submitted materials will begin immediately. The ideal start date is July 1, 2026.

To make a nomination, provide a referral, or for additional information, please use the contact information below.

Martin Baker, Partner & Practice Leader, Buffkin / Baker

336-721-9100

Ken Carrick, Partner, Buffkin / Baker

980.296.5401

Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner, Buffkin / Baker

704-377-7828

All new employees are required to have listed credentials/degrees verified prior to employment. Transcripts should be provided for all earned degrees and/or the degree which is being used to satisfy credential/qualification requirements. Transcript requests are the responsibility of the candidate.

This position is subject to the successful completion of an employment background check. An employment background check includes a criminal background check, employment verification, reference checks, license verification (if applicable), academic verification and credit history check (if applicable).

Fayetteville State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and employment and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status. Moreover, Fayetteville State University values diversity and actively seeks to recruit talented students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds.

Fayetteville State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and seeks priority referrals of protected veterans for our openings.