Rochester Institute Of Technology - Rochester, NY

posted 2 months ago

Full-time - Mid Level
Rochester, NY
Educational Services

About the position

The Director of NTID Government Relations is a pivotal role within the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). This position is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to cultivate and enhance NTID's relationships with government officials at various levels, including federal, state, and local governments. The Director will work closely with the NTID President and the Associate Vice President of RIT for NTID Administration to advocate for NTID's interests, particularly in securing federal appropriations and fostering supportive legislative conditions. Key responsibilities include developing relationships with U.S. Congress members and their staff, as well as state and local government officials. The Director will accompany the NTID President to meetings in Washington D.C. or via Zoom to engage with Congressional staff, ensuring that NTID's needs and goals are effectively communicated. This role also involves monitoring and providing input on significant legislation, such as the reauthorization of the Education of the Deaf Act, and tracking federal and state legislation that impacts NTID and the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. In addition to legislative advocacy, the Director will coordinate NTID's annual budget requests to the U.S. Department of Education and assist in responding to inquiries from the department. The position requires strong communication skills, the ability to navigate complex political landscapes, and a commitment to NTID's mission. The Director will also represent NTID on various committees and facilitate government-related activities, including meetings, briefings, and conferences that involve elected officials. This role is essential for ensuring that NTID's voice is heard in government discussions and that the institute receives the necessary support and funding to fulfill its mission of providing education and services to deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Responsibilities

  • Develop relationships between NTID and the U.S. Congress and state and local government, including elected officials and key staff.
  • Develop the defense and explication of the annual federal appropriations request and the related strategy for Congressional outreach.
  • Accompany NTID President to Washington D.C. or on Zoom to meet with Congressional staff.
  • Work with Senate and House appropriations committees and other Members of Congress to foster supportive conditions for NTID.
  • Cultivate relationships with new or new-to-NTID Members and/or new staffers within Congressional offices.
  • Build and maintain relationships with NYS Governor, NYS Senate, NYS Assembly, and local officials as needed.
  • Respond to all non-budget-related Congressional inquiries, including policy issues or constituent complaints.
  • Notify NTID's Office of the Associate Dean of Research about federal agency funding opportunities and coordinate support for key NTID grant proposals.
  • Coordinate with RIT Government and Community Relations staff on joint RIT/NTID government relations activities and outreach.
  • Draft key correspondence or briefing documents as needed by NTID President.
  • Monitor reauthorization of the Education of the Deaf Act and provide input on behalf of NTID.
  • Identify opportunities for NTID involvement in legislative initiatives or pending legislation.
  • Track federal and state legislation and activities as they relate to NTID.
  • Initiate and oversee on-site government-related activities at NTID, including speeches, briefings, and meetings with elected officials.
  • Build relationships with the U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal government staff as needed.
  • Represent NTID on the Committee for Education Funding and attend regular meetings.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; with at least five years of related experience in government or related field, including large-scale project management experience.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to be nonpartisan, collaborative, and make sound judgments on sensitive matters.
  • Excellent understanding of NTID's mission and how government relations strategies intersect with RIT.
  • Proficiency in ASL or a strong commitment to developing ASL proficiency.

Nice-to-haves

  • Master's or other advanced degree in related field preferred.

Benefits

  • Affordable medical/dental/vision benefits
  • Paid vacation/sick time
  • Retirement saving plan with exceptional employer match
  • Tuition assistance for employees and their families
© 2024 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service