SPEECH & DEBATE ASSISTANT COACH & TRAVEL SPECIALIST

Tennessee Board of Regents•Cleveland, OH

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Cleveland State Community College is seeking a temporary, part-time Speech & Debate Assistant Coach & Travel Specialist to support its Speech & Debate program, with a primary focus on debate. This role involves assisting with coaching, student recruitment, tournament preparation, and performance analysis, as well as coordinating travel logistics for students and staff. The goal is to ensure smooth competition experiences and foster a positive, well-organized team environment. The college is committed to providing open access and quality education, aiming to hire individuals who share these values.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in any combination of: Debate (e.g., judging, coaching, policy, etc.) or Speech (e.g., preparation, judging, oratory/interpretation, etc.).
Valid driver’s license.
Effective interpersonal skills.
Strong oral and written communication skills, including public speaking.
Demonstrated proficiency with various software packages including Microsoft Office Suite.
Demonstrated strong organization and attention to detail while managing multiple deadlines, fast-paced tasks, and time-sensitive projects.
Ability to collaborate with students, staff, and administrators to support program goals, institutional initiatives, and team success.
Ability to apply active learning strategies and teaching practices to support student engagement and success in a community college setting.
Ability to motivate and mentor students by creating a positive learning environment, building relationships, setting clear expectations, and giving constructive feedback.
Reliable attendance at all practices, tournaments, events, and ceremonies, with strong commitment to team participation and responsibilities.
Demonstrated experience in National Parliamentary Debate Association (NPDA), International Public Debate Association (IPDA), and other competitive formats, including rules and judging.

Responsibilities

Assist with training sessions and practices, focusing on areas like argumentation, delivery, and research.
Provide individualized feedback and guidance to students to help them improve their debating skills.
Develop and implement training programs for different debate formats.
Help students prepare for and participate in tournaments and competitions - local and at other universities/colleges.
Identify and recruit new students to join the debate program.
Participate in recruitment events and activities.
Plan and coordinate travel arrangements, including transportation, lodging, and related logistics based on budget and team needs.
Process travel requests, reimbursements, and maintain accurate financial, personnel, and program records.
Support tournaments and competitions through planning, organization, and on-site coordination.
Communicate with coaches, staff, and stakeholders while assisting with budgeting, fundraising, and travel updates.
Promote a supportive team culture that encourages student growth.
Mentor students and help them build communication and critical thinking skills.
Travel to and judge at debate tournaments locally and at various universities.
Scout and analyze opposing teams to inform strategy and preparation.
Stay current on debate trends and techniques and coach specific events or roles as needed.
May be required to achieve additional skills, knowledge, or credential levels.
Other duties as assigned.