Director of Academic and Community Engagement

University of Georgia•Athens, GA

50d

About The Position

The Director of Academic and Community Engagement (ACE) provides strategic leadership to advance the university's mission of fostering a welcoming, engaged, and academically enriching environment. Reporting directly to the Vice Provost for Academic and Community Engagement, the Director oversees the day-to-day operations of ACE, manages professional and administrative staff, and serves as a key advisor in areas related to access, student success, and institutional community-building. This role sets the strategic vision for the ACE office and leads high-impact engagement initiatives that enhance the academic experience and foster strong affinity and connections to the university. The Director will collaborate with campus partners to develop and implement programs that support student development, workforce readiness, global citizenship, academic achievement, and deep connections to the institution. They also represent the Vice Provost in internal and external meetings and lead campus-wide initiatives that align with the university's goals related to academic access, student engagement, and community impact.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent plus 12 years of professional experience to include 5 years of supervisory experience
At least 7 years of progressively responsible administrative or faculty experience in higher education.
Demonstrated success in leading student-centered engagement or academic access initiatives.
Strong background in strategic planning, supervision, and cross-institutional collaboration.
Experience managing office operations, including budgeting, personnel, and program oversight.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to work with diverse internal and external constituencies.
Familiarity with grant development and state or federal funding processes.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, Public Affairs, Social Sciences, or a related field; a doctoral degree is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide executive leadership for ACE, including supervision of staff, management of office operations, and budget oversight.
Guide strategic planning efforts aligned with institutional priorities focused on student access, academic success, and community engagement.
Support the Vice Provost in decision-making and act as a representative in meetings, committees, and institutional initiatives.
Serve as a central point of coordination and communication for internal and external stakeholders engaging with the office.
Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of signature programs, including campus and community partnerships, leadership speaker series, and major university events
Provide executive direction for domestic and global engagement initiatives, including Study Away/Abroad programs and faculty-student experiential learning and research opportunities.
Cultivate relationships with campus leaders and external organizations to advance mutual learning and student development.
Collaborate with campus units to broaden student participation in university programs that promote academic success and prepare students for workforce and civic engagement.
Lead initiatives that support recruitment, engagement, and retention efforts for student populations.
Guide staff supporting student-led organizations and co-curricular engagement, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
Represent ACE on university committees and external boards, including community forums and professional conferences.
Collaborate with academic leaders to evaluate and inform policy and institutional practices that align with ACE's mission.
Provide consultation and leadership in areas related to academic engagement, access, and student achievement.
Lead assessment efforts, including data analysis, surveys, and outcome reporting.
Manage and develop funding proposals that support ACE priorities.
Carry out Special Projects as assigned by the Vice Provost
Support campus-wide initiatives that support the academic affairs goals and the overall mission of the university.