THEC Executive Director Search 2023
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) invites applications and nominations for the position of Executive Director. As the leading voice for THEC, the Executive Director will be an inspiring motivator, innovator, collaborator, and model of selfless public service to the state of Tennessee. The THEC Executive Director also serves as the chief executive for the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC). The Corporation administers over 20 different state student financial aid programs, including the HOPE scholarship, Tennessee Promise, Tennessee Reconnect, Tennessee Student Assistance Award, and the Dual Enrollment grant. The Executive Director reports to the Commission.
About THEC/TSAC
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly to achieve coordination and foster unity with regard to higher education in the state. The Commission coordinates and provides guidance to the institutions governed by the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees, the six locally-governed state universities, and the community colleges, and colleges of applied technology governed by the Tennessee Board of Regents. There are currently nine public universities, two special purpose institutes, 13 community colleges, and 27 colleges of applied technology in Tennessee that serve approximately 250,000 students.
Mission
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission is relentlessly focused on increasing the number of Tennesseans with a postsecondary credential. We pursue this goal by innovating for student access and success, creating a policy environment conducive to increased degree attainment, and protecting students and consumers.
Nominations & Applications
The Commission and Search Committee will identify a candidate who embraces the power of continuity with change and fosters a culture of community. For best consideration, nominations and applications should be received by October 6, 2023. The application must include a letter of interest addressing the characteristics described (not more than three pages); a current résumé (or curriculum vitae); and the names of five professional references with each person's position, office or home address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers. References will not be contacted without prior authorization. Nominations and applications should be sent electronically (MS Word or PDF format) to THECexecutivedirector@agbsearch.com. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission anticipates welcoming the new Executive Director by or before January 2024.
The search is being assisted by James McCormick and Janice Fitzgerald, Senior Executive Search Consultants, AGB Search, jim.mccormick@agbsearch.com, 651-238-5188, janice.fitzgerald@agbsearch.com, 717-580-0663. Additional information may be found at Active Searches | AGB Search.
Nashville, TN
THEC/TSAC’s central office is located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is the center of country music and its growing economy attracts tourists, travelers, and business executives. Country music fans can explore historical locations such as Music Row, the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and others. Any night of the week, the Nashville music scene is alive and happening. Other types of performances are common as well. The Tennessee Performing Arts Center presents Broadway shows and special engagements, and it holds a comprehensive education program. You can also find the Nashville Symphony, Tennessee Repertory Theatre, Nashville Opera Association, Nashville Ballet, and Circle Players.
Nashville is known around the world as Music City USA, but the culture goes far beyond music. The city has architectural attractions like The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the Greek temple and the only one in the world. The city is also home to Belle Meade Plantation, which is known as the cradle of the American Thoroughbred race horse. The home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, called “The Hermitage” is a short distance away. Outdoor fun is also easy to find in and around Nashville. The city is surrounded by lakes, hills, and valleys that offer a multitude of outdoor activities. Tennessee boasts 56 state parks, so the amount of recreational opportunities are endless. Nashville also hosts several professional sports teams - the NHL Nashville Predators, the NFL Tennessee Titans, and the Nashville Soccer Club.
Pursuant to the State of Tennessee's policy on non-discrimination, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) is committed to equal opportunity through affirmative action and is compliant with state and federal law pertaining to equal employment opportunities. THEC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, sex, or creed in its policies, or in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs, services or activities.