Executive Director, Student Engagement

Wake Forest University•Winston Salem, NC

About The Position

The Executive Director of Student Engagement (EDSE) will work with a team of professionals to develop and advance the mission and vision of the University by initiating, facilitating, and assessing a comprehensive unit that promotes a vibrant, engaged, inclusive, and learning-rich community. Serving as a senior leader in the Leadership & Engagement area of Campus Life, the EDSE will provide strategic vision and oversight to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Engagement (OFSE), the Office of Student Engagement (OSE), and the Benson University Center. The EDSE will work collaboratively to lead a broad range of strategic programs and initiatives, including student organizations, campus traditions, Fraternity and Sorority life, Student Government (SG), spirit and athletic activities, and Student Union (campus-programming board). This position will partner with the Assistant Vice President of Campus Life for Leadership and Engagement to meet the needs of students and constituency groups across the Wake Forest community. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by January 5, 2026

Requirements

Master’s degree in student personnel, higher education, counseling, organizational behavior or similar field is required; seven to ten years of relevant student affairs experience, including progressive management responsibilities.
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, administrators, and other diverse groups.
Experience leading an office or unit in a higher education setting.
Knowledge of and a professional commitment to student development and effective higher education administration practices.
Superior written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present views in a clear and compelling manner.
Exceptional project management skills to include the ability to plan, prioritize, organize and lead multiple, concurrent initiatives, and see a project to successful completion.
Experience with policy development, advising, and risk mitigation in higher education.
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office/Google Suite applications and experience in effectively creating documents, reports and presentations.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed and appropriate.
Ability to create, interpret and apply policy and procedures established within the University and Division of Campus Life.
Knowledge of student learning and operational assessment processes and procedures.
Demonstrated ability to think critically and proactively problem-solve.

Nice To Haves

PhD, EdD, or terminal degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, or related field.
Ten years of progressive responsibility.
Experience with Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Organizations and Programs, and/or University Center.

Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with Campus Life leaders to develop, implement, and assess a strategic vision for student engagement in alignment with the Division of Campus Life Strategic Vision.
Supervise the Director of Student Engagement and advance a comprehensive vision for a vibrant student experience, including student organizations, student-led events, campus programs, and spirit and traditions.
Supervise the Director of Fraternity and Sorority Engagement and provide support and strategic guidance to advance a thriving fraternity and sorority community.
Supervise the Associate Director of Benson University Center and support dynamic campus spaces, including Benson University Center, University Activity Space, Fireside on Manchester, and Zick’s, to support the student experience.
Develop and maintain policies and practices that support the functioning of student organizations and groups, including risk and event planning, event management processes, and crisis management protocols needed to support safe student-led events.
Develop and maintain partnerships within Wake Forest Athletics to foster engagement, belonging, spirit, tradition, and wellbeing at athletic events, such as tailgates, fan zones, and pep rallies.
Develop pathways for student engagement in The Forest, Wake Forest’s comprehensive approach to residence life.
Engage and support the advisors of student organizations, fraternities, and sororities, providing opportunities for connection and ongoing communication.
Partner with the Office of Wellbeing, Athletics, Dean of Students and other campus partners to integrate risk and harm reduction strategies for student leaders.
Serve as Secretary to the Wake Forest University Student Life Committee, which includes coordination of the Student Trustee nomination and selection process.
Provide advisory support to Student Government, with emphasis on supporting the SG Executive Board in liaising with university leaders and other campus constituencies.
Serve on a variety of committees within the Leadership & Engagement area, the Division of Campus Life and the university community.
Participate in all department professional activities.
Develop and implement an assessment strategy for the departments reporting to EDSE; develop storytelling opportunities to share the impact of Student Engagement at Wake Forest.
Build a culture of engagement and performance for the Student Engagement teams; support professional development and teambuilding across the unit.
Provide data, analysis, and thought partnership to the Assistant Vice President of Campus Life for Leadership & Engagement.