Science, Faith & Education: Mastering Recruitment for Niche, Hard-to-Fill Positions

Client’s Challenge

Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) was confronted with significant recruitment hurdles for specialized academic roles that had been vacant for an extended period. The university sought candidates for the:

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP),

  • Mechanical Engineering (ME),

  • Electrical Engineering (EE), and

  • Clinical Psychologist (PsyD) Program Developer positions.

These roles demanded not only academic excellence but also a strong alignment with MVNU's faith-based ethos, making the search particularly challenging.

Talent Growth Solution

Talent Growth Partners (TGP) devised and executed a robust recruitment strategy tailored to MVNU's unique needs. Leveraging high-volume sourcing and rigorous screening processes, TGP targeted candidates who not only excelled in their respective fields but also resonated with the university's values. The approach was data-driven and empathetic, ensuring a fit both professionally and culturally.

Outcomes

  • Rapid Closure of DNP Role: Filled within 51 days, exemplifying TGP's efficient process.

  • One-Shot Success for ME Role: The first submission out of 441 candidates led to a successful hire, highlighting TGP's precise understanding and alignment with MVNU's requirements.

  • Effective Strategy for EE Role: Despite the challenges of aligning candidates with MVNU's Christian ethos, TGP's strategic approach successfully filled the role.

  • Adaptability and Insight: TGP demonstrated flexibility and depth in identifying strong candidates, even for the complex, newly introduced PsyD role.

Talent Growth did for us what felt impossible; in one case, they found us a unicorn. With a very small pool of eligible candidates, they were able to find someone who not only met our qualifications but also our specific needs as a faith-based institution. With these difficult searches in their capable hands, my stress level decreased drastically allowing me to focus on other areas at our institution.
— Amy Kovach, PhD, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mount Vernon Nazarene University