Hesed Transition Program Director

Concordia University Wisconsin/Ann Arbor•Mequon, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Hesed Transition Program Director champions a comprehensive postsecondary experience for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, grounded in Lutheran theology of vocation, dignity, and belonging. This leadership role advances student success through strategic program development, academic inclusion, career preparation, campus engagement, and faith formation. The Director manages program operations including budgets, grants, and IRIS compliance; supervises and develops program staff; builds partnerships across campus and community; and ensures continuous improvement through assessment. Reporting to the Vice President for Student Success, this position requires a visionary leader committed to creating equitable opportunities and Christ-centered care.

Requirements

Minimum 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience
Experience in inclusive postsecondary education, disability services, or student affairs
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, supervise staff, and lead strategic initiatives
Able to present a Christian and professional manner
Ability to interact with a diverse set of students
Familiar with the university campus life
Able to deal with interruptions and work in a fast-paced environment
Able to work evening and weekend hours as required
Supportive of the mission and values of Concordia University Wisconsin/Ann Arbor and the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS)
Master's degree required, preference in higher education, special education, or related field

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a strategic vision integrating faith, learning, and student development
Establish measurable outcomes for student success, including academic, vocational, social, and faith growth, ensure these outcomes are tied to admission of students, program curriculum, and requirements of the program for completion
Lead program assessment and continuous improvement efforts
Ensure alignment with institutional mission, Lutheran identity, and inclusive education best practices
Develop and manage program budget, including grants and donor-funded initiatives
Ensure services align with Wisconsin Department of Health Services IRIS guidelines, including compliance, documentation, and appropriate use of participant-directed funds
Collaborate with IRIS participants, consultants, and providers to coordinate services and maintain program integrity
Collaborate with billing to ensure distribution of IRIS funds to Hesed families
Oversee admissions strategy, enrollment management, and retention planning
Ensure compliance with institutional policies, disability laws, and grant requirements
Prepare reports for senior leadership and external stakeholders
Address concerns and problem-solve when challenges arise during the student's college experience
Maintain regular contact with families about student progress and program activities
Set realistic expectations about what the program can and cannot provide
Serve as a point of contact when families have concerns about their student
Gather family feedback about program effectiveness and areas for improvement
Include family perspectives in program planning and development
Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate program staff
Foster a team culture grounded in service, vocation, and Christian care
Provide professional development for staff based on data, student needs, and staff needs
Participate in Hesed on-call responsibilities, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution
Train and supervise staff on IRIS program expectations, documentation, and compliance
Guide staff in developing student progress reports and program completion reports
Ensure team members understand boundaries of IRIS funding and allowable services
Collaborate with academic departments to expand inclusive course access
Partner with Campus Ministry to support student faith engagement
Cultivate relationships with community organizations, employers, and families
Represent the program in university committees and external networks
Expand funding sources for student tuition emphasizing creating equitable opportunities for all individuals with IDD
Other duties as assigned

Benefits

tuition benefits
Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
Personal Spending Account, Flexible Spending Account, and/or Health Savings Account
Disability and Survivor Plan
Retirement Pension Plan
Retirement 403(b) Savings Plan
Basic Life and Supplemental Life Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage
Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
Tuition waiver benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents)