"Director of Campus Unity and Connection"

Job Details

Gardner-Webb University is seeking to fill the position of Director of the Office of Campus Unity and Connection. Please see the position summary, essential duties and responsibilities and application instructions below.

Position Summary:

In recognition of the fact that our campus community is the combination of our similarities and our differences, and that all people are created in the image of God, the Gardner-Webb University Director of Campus Unity and Connection is responsible for developing initiatives that strengthen relationships between all members of our vibrant campus community, including individuals of varying ethnic makeup, cultural background, age, race, language, religion, educational and professional experience, veteran, and socioeconomic status from multiple regions in the United States and a variety of nations. The Director will cultivate a culture of grace, mutual understanding and respect by collaborating with faculty, staff, students, and other key stakeholders to enhance community-building efforts and ensure that all individuals have equal access to meaningful support and resources. The Director shall report to the Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategies that promote an environment where all individuals feel valued and included that aligns with the University’s Christian values and Mission;
• Lead initiatives that encourage collaboration, engagement, and a strong sense of belonging within the organization and the broader community;
• Design and oversee programs that support equitable access to University resources, opportunities, and participation;
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate dialogues, workshops, and events that enhance connection and understanding in support of the University’s Christian values and Mission;
• Assess and improve policies and practices to remove barriers to engagement and foster an open and welcoming culture;
• Serve as a thought leader and advocate for initiatives that strengthen community bonds and collaborative relationships;
• Utilize data and feedback to assess program effectiveness and continuously improve outreach and engagement efforts;
• Represent the University at community events, conferences, and partnership meetings to build relationships and expand networks;
• Provide strategic vision and leadership for University initiatives that will result in both strengthened campus unity and enhanced respect for others in its many forms as students evolve;
• Serve as the Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) for the University. Support and advocate for students attending Gardner-Webb University through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Manage the broad spectrum of services related to F-1 students.;
• Work closely with the Title IX Coordinator for compliance efforts for students, faculty, and staff, including Title IX, Title VII, Section 504, ADA, and others;
• Work closely with the Office of Christian Life and Service to deliver support on campus and community engagement in the region and beyond.
• Identify, build, and sustain key community partnerships in the Boiling Springs and Shelby community;
• Participate as a member of the Student Development Leadership Team;
• Serve on University committees as deemed necessary;
• Articulate, support, and uphold the University’s Christian values and Mission; and
• Complete special projects and perform other duties assigned by the Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students.

Education and/or Experience:

Master’s degree in student development or a related area, three to five years related experience and/or training in a college or university setting, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Three to five years experience of designing and delivering educational programs in a campus setting.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, résumé, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.

Gardner-Webb University (gardner-webb.edu) is a coeducational, residential, private, historically Baptist, Christian institution, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The University offers 80+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 3,000 students. GWU is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral/Professional University. In 2023, Gardner-Webb was home to students from 93 counties in North Carolina, 44 US states, and 43 foreign countries. GWU is a NCAA Division I institution with 22 athletic teams and 460 student-athletes.