University Overview
Wichita State University has a long tradition of innovation and entrepreneurship that spurs the economy and serves the needs of the local community. This is the place where anything is possible. Where collaboration and innovative ideas shape the future, and entrepreneurship is in our bones. If you have the creativity, passion and insight to help us build a brighter future for our city, state and world—this is the place where you belong.
Position Specific Responsibilities
Our General Counsel office is the cornerstone of legal expertise, safeguarding the university’s interests, and navigating complex legal landscapes. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are seeking an astute professional to enhance our dynamic team. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine the fast-paced environment of a law firm with the enriching benefits of higher education.
Demonstrate the ability to work independently on complex legal matters, while seamlessly integrating within our team dynamics. Engage effectively with partners across the university at all levels, tailoring your approach to meet diverse needs and understanding. Handle a broad spectrum of legal issues affecting the university, providing sound advice, and innovative solutions. Maintain the highest standard of professionalism in all forms of communication, ensuring clarity and precision in legal matters.
Possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think critically to navigate complex legal challenges. Skilled in adjusting communication style to suit different audiences and contexts within the university setting. Bring a robust background in practicing law, ideally with exposure to higher education or a similar complex organizational structure. While you are capable of operating independently, your ability to collaborate and contribute to a team is essential.
This role is more than a position—it’s a chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant educational community. At WSU, you’ll find the intellectual challenge of a law firm combined with the cultural and developmental opportunities unique to the higher education sector.
We will consider applicants who do not meet the full qualifications for the Associate role for a lower-level position as Assistant General Counsel. Please see “Additional Information” section for further details.
Summary of Responsibilities
Works with the General Counsel to provide in-house legal representation or the University. Principal responsibilities or the position include, but are not limited to, providing advice on federal and state laws as well as policies or the Kansas Board or Regents (KBOR) and the University; drafting and reviewing contracts, policies, procedures and other legal documents, and correspondence; representing the General Counsel office on University and community commissions, committees and councils; and representing the University in proceedings before federal and state courts and administrative agencies.
Essential Functions
Independently, reviews, revises, drafts and negotiates University contracts. Works closely with multiple internal and external parties, including but not limited to, industry partners, collaborating institutions, government agencies, and faculty and researchers. These include contracts for the purchase of goods and services, research agreements, real estate transactions, and affiliated corporation agreements.
Provides legal advice involving matters arising from the operation of the University by studying and keeping abreast of developments in the law. Responsibilities may include advising about federal and state laws and regulations, and policies and procedures of the University and KBOR; serving on University committees; assisting in formulating policies and monitoring University compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements; reviewing internal discrimination complaints; advising on search and hiring practices; providing training on legal topics; representing the University in federal and state litigation and before federal and state administrative agencies and University grievance bodies; working with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and outside legal counsel.
Commitment
Wichita State University is the only urban-serving public university in Kansas and has the most diverse student body of all the Kansas state universities. Wichita State recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a veteran. Wichita State University has a clear goal in this regard: to be a university that promotes inclusive excellence at every level of our organization. We pride ourselves on being the most innovative university in Kansas, delivering the best educational experience to our students with the distinction for opening pathways to real-life learning, applied research and career opportunities that make people want to stay in Kansas. Our campus provides an experience that promotes all forms of inclusive excellence; a place to learn, work, live and play.