JOBS AT EIU

Associate Director or Director of Strategic Engagement

Eastern Illinois University is seeking an Associate Director or Director of Strategic Engagement. The primary responsibility of this role is to engage key stakeholders, alumni, and constituents to advance the mission of the College of Education and strengthen community connections. This position oversees all external relations, including marketing, communication, and recruitment efforts, to enhance visibility and support for the College. Additionally, the role provides strategic support to the Dean in advancing the University’s mission. The position reports directly to the Dean of the College of Education and serves as a key liaison to University Advancement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Lead the planning, execution, and promotion of initiatives to foster alumni engagement, cultivate annual giving, and enhance the visibility of the College of Education. Represent the College at University events to build relationships with key stakeholders.
2. Oversee all marketing and external relations efforts, including managing social media, newsletters, greeting cards, press releases, and special communication projects to strengthen the College’s brand and outreach.
3. Serve as the primary liaison between the College of Education and University Advancement, aligning the College’s annual giving initiatives and alumni activities with broader campus fundraising efforts. Plan fundraisers and manage College-led stewardship practices.
4. In consultation with the Associate Dean, oversee and participate in recruitment efforts for academic programs.  Some overnight and distance travel required.
5. Recruit members, coordinate meetings in collaboration with the Dean and Board President and provide ongoing support for the College of Education Board of Advisors.
6. Monitor the scholarship process to ensure timely awarding and assist with donor stewardship to strengthen support for College based scholarships.
7. Supervise various student personnel.
8. Perform other duties as assigned to support the College’s mission and strategic goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution.
• Ability to travel for the institution and effectively represent EIU 
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• For Associate Director: Two (2) years of communication, marketing, advancement, recruitment, or closely related work experience. 
• For Director: Four (4) years of communication, marketing, advancement, recruitment, or closely related work experience. 

*Note: Master’s degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution.
• Demonstrated professional experience in higher education.
• Knowledge of professional education licensure and program structures.

SALARY RANGE:  $54,000 - $60,000

BENEFITS OVERVIEW: Eastern Illinois University is proud to offer an excellent benefits package designed to support our employees' well-being and career goals. For complete information on our employee benefit programs for this specific position, please visit http://www.eiu.edu/humanres/benefits/newemployees.php.

This position is eligible for the following benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Competitive employee insurance premiums with flexible plan options.
• Vision Insurance: Vision coverage is included with medical at no cost.
• Dental Insurance: Dental plans available to meet your needs.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the State University Retirement System, which includes medical insurance benefits upon retirement.
• Tuition Waivers: Opportunities to pursue educational goals through tuition waivers for employees and dependent children after vesting period.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Up to 12 paid holidays annually, plus earned vacation and sick time.

CLOSING DATE:  Review will begin immediately and continue until filled. Candidates are encouraged to submit materials no later than April 28, 2025 for full consideration. Position is open until filled. 

HOW TO APPLY: Applications must be submitted through “Interfolio” via http://apply.interfolio.com/164565.  Submitted materials must include cover letter, resume, list of 5 professional references with contact information and transcripts.

For questions regarding this search, please contact the Screening Committee Chair, Haylee Brickey at habrickey@eiu.edu. 

Diversity and Inclusion: Eastern Illinois University is committed to fostering a learning community where all members feel welcomed and valued. The university provides equality of opportunity in all areas of campus life and we strive to recognize and appreciate the unique value of our students, faculty, and staff. Every member of campus has the right to learn and work in an environment free of discrimination and harassment, and beyond that, our goal is for all members of our community to develop a strong sense of belonging to Eastern Illinois University. 

The University and Community:  Eastern Illinois University takes pride in creating a warm, welcome environment for all faculty, staff and students. Established in 1895, EIU boasts a rich, tradition of preparing students for their personal and professional goals. A traditional regional residential institution, EIU offers a superior education at a relatively low cost while consistently earning high rankings and distinctions for its affordability, academic program quality, career placement rates, campus safety, online degree options, student support, and sustainability initiatives. EIU focuses on individualized attention and superior student relationships and has earned recognition as the highest-ranking independent public regional university in Illinois and a place among the Midwest’s top public regional universities according to U.S. News and World Report.  Eastern offers faculty a wide range of research and public service activities. EIU hosts more than 175 student organizations on campus, and offers a variety of cultural events, NCAA Division I athletics, and active research opportunities for its students to enjoy and to thrive. EIU has become recognized for providing the resources of a large institution while creating the kinds of individual relationships that support student and alumni success.

The University is located in East Central Illinois, combines the benefits of a community of 20,000 with access to several large cities, including Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.

Eastern Illinois University is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer – minority/female/disability/veteran – committed to achieving a diverse community.