Government Relations Assistant in Richmond, Virginia at Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Government Relations Assistant provides administrative, operational, and communication support for the University’s government relations and external affairs initiatives. This position assists with coordinating legislative activities, maintaining relationships with government agencies and community stakeholders, and supporting advocacy efforts that advance the University’s mission and strategic priorities.

The Government Relations Assistant helps ensure effective communication, organization, and compliance related to federal, state, and local government engagement activities.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative support to the Government Relations and External Affairs office.
• Schedule meetings, maintain calendars, and coordinate appointments with government officials and stakeholders.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, presentations, agendas, and meeting materials.
• Maintain records related to government relations activities, partnerships, and communications.
• Support the preparation of briefing documents, policy summaries, and legislative updates.
• Serve as a point of contact for internal and external inquiries related to government relations activities.
• Assist in coordinating meetings, campus visits, and events involving elected officials, agencies, and community partners.
• Coordinate logistics for conferences, public meetings, and special programs.
• Maintain accurate files, databases, and documentation related to government relations activities.
• Track correspondence, legislative updates, and project timelines.
• Prepare reports and summaries as requested.

Education

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Communications, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 1–3 years of administrative or government relations experience preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.