Higher Education Director
About The Position
The Higher Education Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and oversight of the Comanche Nation Higher Education Program. This role ensures the effective management of scholarships, grants, student services, and educational initiatives that support the academic success and advancement of Comanche Nation students. This position ensures compliance with applicable tribal and federal regulations related to scholarships and education services. The Director provides direct staff supervision, oversees service delivery, ensures timely reporting, and maintains a high standard of confidentiality and professionalism. Classroom instruction for GED/HiSET may be required. The Director develops policies, manages budgets, evaluates program effectiveness, and upholds the mission, vision, and values of the Comanche Nation.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree in Education, Administration, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience in education administration, higher education services, student support programs, or a related field.
- Supervisory experience required.
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of tribal governance, tribal education programs, and federal funding guidelines preferred.
- Experience managing budgets, grants, or financial assistance programs.
Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership, direction, and administration of the Higher Education Program, ensuring compliance with tribal, federal, and funding requirements.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate program strategies, goals, and initiatives to support student achievement and access to higher education opportunities.
- Oversee the processing, awarding, and monitoring of scholarships, grants, and financial assistance to eligible Comanche Nation students.
- Oversee full administration of Higher Education, JPT, and Adult Education programs, ensuring efficient and compliant service delivery.
- Serve as the Scholarship Officer, ensuring compliance with regulations for awarding grants and scholarships and maintaining accurate student records.
- Manage program budgets, prepare financial reports (monthly and annually), and ensure responsible stewardship of program funds.
- Establish and maintain policies and procedures to ensure consistent and fair application processing.
- Supervise and support staff, ensure proper training, and maintain a productive and professional work environment.
- Complete annual performance evaluations for all staff and implement professional development plans when needed.
- Collect, analyze, and report statistical data on student participation, program outcomes, and financial allocations.
- Serve as a liaison between the Comanche Nation and educational institutions, community organizations, and external agencies.
- Engage in community outreach, including presentations to students, parents, schools, and tribal programs regarding education opportunities.
- Maintain a strong relationship with colleges, universities, education partners, and tribal programs to promote opportunities for Comanche students.
- Provide guidance and support to students and families regarding academic planning, financial aid, and higher education pathways.
- Maintain professionalism and confidential at all times.
- Employee must adhere to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- Employee must abide by all Comanche Nation Human Resources Department policies and guidelines.
- Represent the program at meetings, conferences, cultural events, and tribal gatherings.
- Ensure all services respect and support Comanche cultural values and community priorities.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Annual Leave (4 hours per pay period)
- Sick Leave (4 hours per pay period)
- Birthday Leave
- Bereavement Leave (5 paid days off for specified family members)
- Fifteen (15) Paid Holidays
- Medical Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
- Dental Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
- Life Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only- $40K coverage)
- 401K-up to 3% match
- Medical Insurance BCBS (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
- Dental Insurance Delta Dental (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
- Vision Insurance VSP (Employee, Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
- Short-term Disability
- Long-term Disability
- Additional Employee Life Insurance
- Spouse, and Child Life Insurance
- AFLAC
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
