Executive Director, Community Care and Education Center

Carbondale•Carbondale, IL

21d

About The Position

The College of Health and Human Sciences at Southern Illinois University seeks an inaugural Executive Director for the Community Care and Education Center (CCEC), with a 0% Faculty appointment. Opened in 2026, the CCEC brings together behavioral and mental health services, workforce development, and interdisciplinary research in Southern Illinois. The Executive Director will lead strategic operations, revenue growth, program innovation, and partnerships across the Center’s four core programs: the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, the Clinical Center, the Evaluation and Developmental Center, and Project 12 Ways. The role also involves collaboration with co-located faculty across the College of Health and Human Sciences and advancing access, continuity, and quality of care for individuals and families while supporting faculty, students, and the wider community. The Executive Director will develop the Center’s mission, vision, and strategic goals; lead and support program directors and staff; coordinate programs; represent the Center externally; and lead fundraising and resource development. The position is responsible for financial accountability, quality monitoring and client safety, and long-term growth and sustainability. The role also includes teaching a six-credit equivalent load in both fall and spring semesters, which may be reduced as the CCEC grows, and other duties assigned by College leadership. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The position is based at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The university describes the surrounding region as offering a lower cost of living, nearby natural and recreational areas, and cultural and community amenities.

Requirements

Master’s degree in a relevant health, behavioral health, or administrative discipline.
At least 3 years of experience as an administrator or supervisor in a social service organization, childcare/development setting, educational environment, or related field working with health and behavioral health clientele.
Valid driver’s license and ability to drive.
At least 7 years of professional experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, or related nonprofit organization work, unless substituted by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nonprofit management or a closely related subject.

Nice To Haves

Experience with start-up programs.
Experience with accreditation or program review through state boards.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement the Center’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.
Convene and lead a cross-disciplinary leadership team of program directors and faculty leaders.
Participate in the Dean’s Leadership Team.
Supervise, coach, and develop program directors, with an eye toward program expansion, innovation, and impact.
Hire, train, and supervise an Administrative Assistant to support Center operations.
Ensure coordination and alignment across programs housed within the Center.
Promote and support cross-collaboration for research initiatives.
Develop and oversee an ongoing monitoring system to ensure quality control across service areas and the safety of clients and participants in CCEC services and events.
Serve as the Center’s primary external representative.
Build and maintain relationships with community stakeholders, government agencies, and funding partners.
Lead fundraising and development efforts in collaboration with university foundation staff.
Secure external funding through grants, partnerships, and philanthropic contributions.
Develop and manage a business office that holds the Center accountable to its budget and financial goals.
Oversee the Center’s growth and long-term sustainability through strategic planning, capacity building, and resource alignment.
Drive innovation in behavioral and mental health programming by identifying emerging trends, research, and best practices, and ensuring services remain forward-thinking, community-responsive, and evidence-based.
Teach a six-credit equivalent in both fall and spring semesters; this load may be reduced as the CCEC grows.
Perform other duties as assigned by College leadership.