Director of Strategic Initiatives and Access

Centre College is a premier national liberal arts college that serves approximately 1,400 students and provides a supportive community and a flexible, personal academic path to a meaningful life and career. Founded in 1819, Centre accomplishes its goals in an atmosphere of caring and respectful relationships among faculty, students, and staff. The College has an endowment in excess of $420 million and an operating budget of more than $65 million.

Centre welcomes and supports diversity. The College strives to create an environment where differences are celebrated, where individuals can exchange ideas and share in the richness of mutual experiences. Please view our Statement of Community.

Located in Danville, KY, the historic, picturesque 150-acre campus is 30 miles from Lexington, in the famed Bluegrass Region of Central Kentucky.

The Director of Strategic Initiatives and Access fosters an intellectually engaging environment and empowers the community to develop the skills, perspectives, and experiences necessary to contribute to an interconnected and just world. This role is responsible for designing and implementing initiatives that promote meaningful engagement, broaden opportunities for student success, and enhance institutional practices that support access and belonging.

The Director will oversee programming and learning opportunities that equip students, staff, and faculty with the knowledge and competencies needed to build a supportive and comprehensive campus community. This position will lead and facilitate trainings, presentations, workshops, and consultations that align with the institution’s goals for engagement, student success and cultivating a sense of community and belonging.

• In collaboration with the Vice President, develop and implement a strategic plan to enhance student engagement, expand access to campus resources, and strengthen support systems for students, staff, and faculty.
• Oversee the New Horizon Scholars Program, including: coordinating recruitment and mentor training, working with Admissions for student selection, planning retreats and learning opportunities, organizing cohort meetings, and serving as the primary program contact.
• Design and deliver impactful programming in the Intercultural Suite to engage students through cultural celebrations, awareness of global justice movements, and dialogue on campus climate topics.
• Lead the planning and execution of key campus events, including Building Bridges and Community Day, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation and Day of Service.
• Provide guidance and consultation to faculty and staff to support welcoming, student-centered classrooms and workspaces where all members of the community can thrive.
• Establish benchmarks and use assessment tools to evaluate the outcomes of campus programs and student engagement efforts.
• Support student organizations through mentorship, leadership development, and event planning—especially during cultural observances, Homecoming, and graduation celebrations.
• Partner with offices such as Student Life, Residence Life, Religious Life, International Student Services, and the Norton Center to coordinate programming and student support.
• Manage the Office newsletter, including content development and communication planning to highlight initiatives, stories, and resources that contribute to a vibrant and connected campus environment.
• Demonstrate an appreciation for and sensitivity to an inclusive academic community, fostering a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff from all social, economic, cultural, ideological, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.

Other duties include:

• Actively participate in designated campus committees, contributing to institutional planning and student support efforts.
• Build strong advisory and advocacy relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community shareholders to promote collaboration and address emerging needs.
• Represent the office in a variety of settings, including meetings with campus leadership, faculty, staff, students, and external partners or organizations.
• Lead or collaborate with relevant offices to plan and implement a variety of recognition and celebration events that honor the identities, experiences, and contributions of all members of the campus community.
• Support the overall mission and goals of the office by completing additional responsibilities and tasks as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree required in higher education administration, student affairs, organizational leadership, social sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum five years of progressive experience in student access, campus engagement, institutional initiatives, or a related field.
• Experience in program development, strategic planning, and assessment within higher education or community engagement settings.
• Experience managing budgets, program evaluation, and data-driven decision-making.
• The salary range for this position is between $51,400 and $65,550.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Preferred knowledge of data visualization tools and survey platforms (Qualtrics, Google Forms, etc.).
• Familiarity with learning management systems and campus engagement platforms.
• Experience with Canva or other design programs for marketing and communication purposes.

Organizational & Leadership Skills:

• Strong planning, project management, and time management skills.
• Ability to oversee multiple initiatives, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changing institutional needs.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic initiatives that support student access, success, and engagement.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments, institutions, and community organizations.

Communication Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present to diverse audiences.
• Strong facilitation skills with experience leading workshops, training sessions, or large group discussions.
• Ability to develop reports, proposals, and strategic documents effectively.

Physical Requirements:

• Limited pushing, pulling, and lifting (not exceeding 20 lbs).
• Mobility on campus as necessary, including attending meetings and events across different locations