The Assistant Director of Leadership Initiatives develops and expands leadership opportunities for College of Charleston students as a member of the Office of Student Involvement team. The position works collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and campus partners to strengthen leadership development across the student experience and create accessible opportunities for students to discover, practice, and grow their leadership. The Assistant Director develops and supports signature programs, workshops, cohort experiences, and other leadership initiatives while helping cultivate the Higdon Center for Student Leadership as a welcoming and engaging campus hub for leadership development, connection, and community.

Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant professional experience in student services programs; Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Student Personnel, or Leadership strongly preferred. Experience working with student programs in a higher education environment is preferred. Requires experience in public speaking and with using computer desktop publishing software and MS Office. Candidates with an equivalent combination of experience and/or education are encouraged to apply.

Working knowledge of leadership topics; principles, policies & practices of small and large event planning; relevant laws, regulations, policies & organizational functions. Ability to effectively prioritize, plan, and organize work and tasks to meet goals and deadlines. Ability to train others as needed. Ability to be courteous and deal effectively with all personnel and the public. Knowledge of FERPA student privacy regulations necessary

Requires some nights and weekends work.

Please complete the application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

*Salary is commensurate with education/experience which exceeds the minimum requirements.

Offers of employment are contingent upon a successful background check.

All applications must be submitted online https://jobs.cofc.edu.

The College of Charleston is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis of sex, gender (including gender identity and/or expression), pregnancy, race, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, and other classifications protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information, please visit eop.cofc.edu.

1. Leadership Programs & Initiatives: Coordinates and implements a variety of leadership development programs and initiatives designed to provide accessible opportunities for students at different levels of leadership experience. Develops and facilitates workshops, cohort-based experiences, pop-up programs, leadership assessments, and other educational opportunities that help students explore, practice, and strengthen their leadership skills. Coordinates program logistics, participant recruitment and communication, facilitators and speakers, and related resources. Collects student feedback and assesses program outcomes to recommend enhancements and identify opportunities for future leadership initiatives.

2. Cougar Excursion: Coordinates Cougar Excursion, the College’s signature pre-semester leadership and transition experience for incoming first-year and transfer students. Advises the Cougar Excursion Executive Board as student leaders plan, implement, and execute the program, emphasizing student ownership and leadership development throughout the planning process. Coordinates participant recruitment, registration, communication, and program logistics, including securing the retreat site and transportation. Oversees the annual review and development of program curriculum, supports student leader and facilitator preparation, and assesses program outcomes to recommend improvements. Coordinates the selection and awarding of the Emily Salisbury Scholarship.

3. Campus Leadership Partnerships: Develops collaborative partnerships across the College to expand and strengthen leadership development opportunities for students. Works with student organizations, faculty, staff, academic programs, and campus departments to identify where students are already practicing leadership and connect those experiences with relevant training, resources, and support. Coordinates and facilitates requested workshops, presentations, leadership assessments, and other educational experiences for student groups and campus partners. Supports leadership development within the Office of Student Involvement, including student organizations, student employment, and other involvement experiences. Identifies opportunities for new partnerships and recommends collaborative initiatives that make leadership development more accessible to students across majors and levels of involvement.

4. Higdon Center Engagement & Community: Develops the Higdon Center for Student Leadership as a welcoming and engaging campus hub for leadership development, connection, and community. Creates opportunities that increase student awareness, engagement, and use of the Center and connects students with leadership programs, resources, and involvement opportunities. Builds relationships with students who utilize the Center and cultivates an environment where students from a variety of backgrounds, majors, and levels of involvement feel welcome to gather, connect, and explore leadership. Collaborates with Office of Student Involvement colleagues and campus partners to increase the visibility and use of the Higdon Center as a student resource.

5. Program Administration: Coordinates administrative and financial processes for leadership programs and initiatives in collaboration with the Director of Student Involvement and Business Manager. Develops program budgets, monitors expenditures and available resources, maintains appropriate program and financial records, and ensures activities are conducted in accordance with College and State policies and procedures. Identifies opportunities to maximize existing resources and pursue partnerships, co-sponsorships, and other funding opportunities that strengthen leadership initiatives. Assists with stewardship and reporting related to endowed, donor-supported, and other designated leadership funds as appropriate.

6. Student Advising: Advises and supports students and student groups engaged in leadership-focused activities, including Omicron Delta Kappa and other leadership initiatives as assigned. Provides guidance related to organizational development, program planning, leadership development, and student-led initiatives. Serves as an active member of the Office of Student Involvement team by participating in staff meetings, departmental planning, major programs and events, committees, and shared office initiatives. Collaborates with colleagues across functional areas and contributes to office priorities and student engagement efforts beyond the position’s primary leadership portfolio as needed.