Augustana University, a selective, comprehensive university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, seeks a head coach to lead Augustana Women’s Basketball. The program has qualified in 14 NCAA Division II basketball tournaments including a Final Four appearance in 2013. Located in the growing and vibrant city of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Augustana University has, for more than 160 years, provided a strong student-centric education based on its five core values: Christian faith, liberal arts, excellence, community and service. The institution continues to expand its pre-professional and graduate offerings, while remaining true to its liberal arts tradition. Guided by Viking Bold: The Journey to 2030, the strategic plan which serves as the road map to Augustana’s exciting and successful future, AU Athletics plays a key role. An essential partner in advancing the university’s strategic priorities and mission, the Augustana Women’s Basketball Head Coach will report to Athletics Director Josh Morton and commit to the philosophy statement of Augustana Athletics, which aims to provide a student-athlete centered experience committed to distinction in the classroom, excellence in competition and faithful service to community. The university seeks a head coach with an established record of success as a head coach or assistant coach, with a passion for recruiting. In addition to a track record of competitive excellence, the head coach for Augustana women’s basketball will build on the foundation and culture of the program and play an integral role in growing the fan base for Viking Basketball. While overseeing all aspects of the women’s basketball program, the head coach will also be a leader within the campus and Sioux Falls communities. The head coach will serve as the public face of the program, creating and maintaining a positive public image while recruiting and training student-athletes to compete for conference, region, and national championships. This position must also lead and maintain a program that competes with excellence through recruiting, on-court teaching techniques, scheduling, monitoring academic progress, budget management and fundraising, while also promoting the sport throughout the university and local communities. This position shall have a strong working knowledge and understanding of all NCAA rules and regulations regarding compliance issues. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important to the Augustana community, and the university seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from diverse candidate pools. Augustana also embraces the growing diversity within Sioux Falls. The head coach will be an advocate for diversity and will commit to best practices for student success as well as fan and community engagement. For more information about how to nominate a candidate or express personal interest, please see the “Procedure for Candidacy” at the end of this document.

Expectations for Leadership

Enhance the competitive excellence of Augustana women’s basketball

Augustana women’s basketball already has a foundation of excellence, and the opportunity is there to take it to the next level nationally.  The head coaching job of Augustana women’s basketball is one of the premier jobs in Division II.  With a first-class competition facility at the Sanford Pentagon, an on-campus practice gym, and a brand new strength and conditioning center set to open in 2023, the facility foundation is in place for recruiting success.

Develop the complete Augustana student-athlete

Distinction in the classroom, excellence in competition, and faithful service to community.  The Augustana Athletics philosophy statement is more than just words on a piece of paper, it’s something the entire department has embraced.  The women’s basketball program has enjoyed six academic all-Americans, 110 academic all-NSIC, and countless working professionals making a difference in their communities.  The head coach will continue to enhance and embrace this aspect of the role.

Build community excitement and financial support for the success of Augustana women’s basketball

Whether it’s through youth camps & clinics, serving the community, or representing Augustana University as a volunteer, the head coach will rally the Sioux Falls and Augustana communities to support women’s basketball.  Financial support is already strong for Augustana and the head coach will be a key partner bringing in new investors and sponsors for Augustana Athletics.

Professional Qualifications and Personal Qualities

• Proven winner as head coach or assistant coach in the sport of basketball
• Team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
• Strong recruiting skills and extensive contacts with organizations and prospective student-athletes
• Deep knowledge and understanding of all NCAA rules and regulations regarding compliance issues
• Strategic vision for the future as it relates to collegiate athletics, student-athletes and the way technology continues to impact the culture of the sport
• Excellent communicator who understands different audiences
• Ability to interact with students, faculty and leadership with different backgrounds and points of view and a deep appreciation of and respect for academic values and culture
• Commitment to Augustana’s mission and student-athlete academic success
• Commitment to highest standards of integrity
• Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
• Commitment to student-athlete mental health and overall wellbeing
• Competitive and confident to add to the excellence of Augustana Athletics

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