"Director of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)"

Director of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category: Adult and Continuing Education Programs

Type: Full-Time

Requisition Number: S4960P

Home Org Name: OLLI

Division Name: Assoc Prov & VP for Outreach

Job Class Code: AA52

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: No

Job Summary

The Office of the Vice President for University Outreach at Auburn University invites applications for an accomplished and forward-thinking professional to serve as Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). Reporting directly to the Vice President for University Outreach and Associate Provost, the Director provides strategic and operational leadership with management for all aspects of OLLI at Auburn University. Core responsibilities include overseeing administration, budgeting and financial operations, academic and public programming, membership development, community engagement and outreach, fundraising and advancement initiatives, advertising and communications, as well as short- and long-term planning to further the Institute's mission and objectives. The ideal candidate brings an academic background along with the vision and practical experience to facilitate programming across disciplines.

Essential Functions

• Guides and implements OLLI activities in collaboration with the OLLI leadership board, university administration, and other departments; develops both short-term and long-range plans that support OLLI's mission and align with University Outreach's strategic objectives.
• Provides leadership to staff and volunteers to plan and deliver a schedule of in-person and virtual academic and non-academic classes, public programs, workshops, and social activities throughout three quarters and the summer term; regularly assesses program quality and audience satisfaction. Collaborates closely with volunteer leadership and OLLI staff to design and implement engaging, accessible programming that spans the arts, humanities, and sciences, as well as social and physical activities tailored for adults over 50. Ensures that offerings reflect diverse interests within the community and supports lifelong learning and enrichment opportunities for all members.
• Conceptualizes, administers, and oversees fundraising and development efforts, including building and grounds maintenance, program finances, scholarships, and seeking external funding through grant organizations.
• Initiates, organizes, and maintains partnerships with University Outreach units, campus departments, and external organizations to enhance programming and community engagement; communicates regularly with the Bernard Osher Foundation and National Resources Center, providing required reports and tracking Auburn's progress compared to other OLLI campuses; coordinates with OLLI at Auburn University at Montgomery and attends relevant regional and national meetings.
• Oversees the development and management of the Institute's budget, ensuring strict adherence to Auburn University's financial policies and procedures. In collaboration with the OLLI Board, prepares a comprehensive three-year budget plan to guide long-term fiscal sustainability. Provides strategic oversight of all financial operations, including monitoring expenditures, managing revenue streams, and ensuring optimal resource allocation. Partners with Outreach Advancement to lead fundraising initiatives, including support for OLLI's capital campaign, and actively cultivates and maintains relationships with donors to advance the Institute's mission and financial growth.
• Assesses and implements membership enrollment goals by guiding volunteer committee strategies for recruitment, maintenance, and retention; develops strategies to attract a wide range of members and strengthen participation.
• Oversees publicity and communications, including maintaining website content, collaborating on promotional materials, and utilizing media outlets such as newspapers, radio, and social media for local and regional advertising and promotion.
• Coordinates with campus facilities management to oversee OLLI administrative offices, negotiates space for academic and social programs, and adapts facilities for virtual classrooms as needed.
• Supervises and leads the OLLI staff team, including full-time administrative staff, program administrators, temporary employees, student workers, and interns; responsible for training, evaluating, recommending pay and promotions, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all staff and volunteers.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in Adult Education, Communications, Management, or a closely related field.
• 5 years of experience in an academic setting working with administrators; experience working with volunteers.

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated experience working within an academic environment, collaborating effectively with administrators and engaging with volunteers.
• Proven expertise in the planning, administration, and development of fee-for-service, non-credit educational programs.
• Comprehensive understanding of outreach initiatives and the mission of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at a land-grant university.
• Knowledge and experience in fundraising and donor stewardship.
• Extensive experience in budget development, staff supervision, and the ability to critically analyze and improve departmental operations.
• Advanced strategic planning and program evaluation skills.
• Ability to identify, pursue, and secure extramural funding opportunities.
• Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, engaging effectively with a diverse range of individuals.
• Active participation in professional associations related to outreach, professional, and continuing education.
• Thorough knowledge of higher education policies and procedures, particularly those related to Carnegie and SACS guidelines for outreach and engagement, as well as university operations, strategic planning, and program evaluation.

Salary Range: $61,140-$103,940

Job Category: Executive/Director/Management

City position is located in: Auburn

State position is located: Alabama