Director, Civic Engagement and Community Serv in Richmond, Virginia at Virginia Union University

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, public administration, political science, education, community development, social work, or a related field.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in civic engagement, community organizing, advocacy, student engagement, community relations, or related work.
• Demonstrated success developing community partnerships and mobilizing students or other stakeholders for civic participation and advocacy.
• Working knowledge of public policy, government processes, and legislative advocacy; experience coordinating workshops, community programming, or civic initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, facilitation, organizational, and project-management skills; commitment to the mission of HBCUs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field and/or experience in higher education, especially at an HBCU.
• Established relationships in Richmond-area civic, faith-based, nonprofit, or government networks; familiarity with the Virginia General Assembly and local government.
• Experience with service-learning, volunteer programs, coalition building, grassroots advocacy, and engagement-tracking tools.

Working ConditionsThe position requires regular community presence and local travel, occasional travel elsewhere in Virginia, and evening or weekend work for community activities, campus events, and legislative initiatives. A valid driver’s license and ability to meet University travel requirements are required.

How to ApplySubmit a cover letter, résumé, two reference letters and responses to the three required screening questions. Applications will be reviewed immediately until the position is filled.

Required Applicant Screening Questions

Applicants must respond to the following three questions as part of the application process. Responses should include specific examples that demonstrate relevant experience, strategic thinking, and measurable outcomes. Please limit responses to 300 words per question.

1. Civic Engagement and Advocacy

Describe an initiative you developed or led that successfully mobilized students, young adults, or community stakeholders around a civic issue, public policy priority, or advocacy campaign. What strategies did you employ to encourage participation, and what measurable outcomes were achieved?

2. Community Engagement and Partnership Development

Building strong, sustainable relationships with community organizations, neighborhood associations, faith-based institutions, and other stakeholders is central to this position. Describe a successful community partnership you initiated or strengthened. How did you identify shared priorities, build trust, and translate the partnership into meaningful action or measurable community impact?

3. Legislative Advocacy and Strategic Engagement

Virginia Union University seeks to strengthen its legislative advocacy efforts by connecting institutional priorities with civic and community engagement. Describe how you would develop and implement a strategy to engage students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners in advancing a university legislative priority. What specific approaches would you use to build awareness, mobilize participation, and assess the effectiveness of your advocacy efforts?

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.