Senior Strategist for Higher Education and Global Initiatives

ABOUT VOORHEES UNIVERSITY

Voorhees University is a private, diverse, historically black, coeducational, liberal arts, baccalaureate degree-granting institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Located in rural Denmark, South Carolina, the University serves traditional and nontraditional students primarily from South Carolina and the southeastern region of the United States. The University offers each student a comprehensive general education experience coupled with professional education in the values-centered liberal arts environment that supports educational opportunities designed to help prepare students to function in a diverse and increasingly technological society. Accordingly, the University seeks to produce highly qualified graduates who coalesce intellect and faith in pursuit of life-long learning, healthy living, the betterment of society, and an abiding faith in God.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Senior Strategist will report directly to the CEO of the Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation (EPI) and play a critical role in managing educational initiatives at local, national, and global levels. Physically located at the EPI Center and administratively housed in the Office of the President at Voorhees University, this role will serve as the lead for managing the affiliation between the Institution and nonprofit. This position requires a dedicated and innovative professional to oversee key administrative functions, including pipeline development and coordination, outreach for educational initiatives, coordination of wraparound services for educators, and the cultivation of paraprofessionals and aspiring educators pursuing certification or professional development. The Senior Strategist will also contribute to the institution’s efforts in grantsmanship, donor relationship management, and policy development and adherence. Additionally, the role requires qualifications to serve in a faculty capacity, providing academic instruction and support as priorities allow.

Department/Division: Office of the President and the EPI Center

Salary: $90,000 – $100,000

FLSA Classification: Salaried, Exempt 

Type/Duration: Full Time/Institution and Grant funded

Position Schedule: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (Evenings and weekends required)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Strategic Development: Enhance and implement strategic priorities for state, national, and global educational pipelines, focusing on talent acquisition and sustainable initiatives that align with Voorhees University and EPI goals and priorities.
• Pipeline Initiatives: Lead initiatives that support paraprofessionals in pursuing undergraduate and graduate education, fostering pathways for career advancement.
• Wraparound Services Coordination: Oversee the coordination of wraparound services for paraprofessionals, offering direct academic and professional development support to education candidates.
• Induction Support: Provide comprehensive induction support to candidates, enriching their teaching practices, learning experiences, and professional development.
• Curriculum Development: Design micro-credential curricula and other opportunities to facilitate the application of professional learning.
• Grantsmanship: Engage in grantsmanship related to higher education workforce development and manage relevant contracts effectively.
• Partnership Development: Target the development of global teacher education partnerships and initiatives in collaboration with Voorhees University and the EPI Center.
• Data Collection and Dissemination: Collect and report data to document impact and effectiveness.

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED SKILLS SET:

• An earned terminal degree in Education or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Proven experience in educational program and curriculum development and implementation.
• Strong grantsmanship skills and experience in securing funding for educational initiatives.
• Ability to cultivate relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, policymakers, and educational institutions.
• Demonstrated ability to provide effective academic instruction and support.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Seven years of experience as a University administrator (dean, associate dean, department chair, director or comparable senior level officer) including a demonstrated history of strong leadership and successful implementation of complex initiatives and demonstrated experience with budget management.
• Experience with review and assessment of existing academic programs.
• Experience with the development of new degree programs, including curricula, resource planning (including funding), assessment, and accreditation support.
• Excellent communication skills and community-centered character.