Mitchell College is building on its long history of making higher education more accessible by pioneering an entirely new approach which is flexible, strength-based and interest driven. Our ability-based approach to learning focuses on teaching adaptability through a core academic discipline curriculum, which provides multiple opportunities for students to apply skills in different learning and professional contexts. To keep this model innovative, vibrant and responsive to students’ interests, we need instructors and faculty who are experienced in building cross-disciplinary collaborations between areas of interest, both in our core curriculum and in dynamic new concentrations of study. This revolutionary approach to learning ensures students learn the adaptive skills they need to live life well, both professionally and personally.

Mitchell College seeks an innovative professional with an entrepreneurial mindset to further the mission and vision of the Thames program. As a key member of the President's senior team, the Director of Thames at Mitchell will deliver transformational supportive services to prepare students for new educational and life transition pursuits. The Director will collaborate with the senior team and larger college community to ensure the Thames program integrates into all institutional aspects. 

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Partner with Academic Affairs and Student Affairs to ensure that programmatic objectives and student outcomes are supported and met. Partner with Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communication to ensure robust and accurate program marketing to meet programmatic goals.
• Lead a dynamic professional team and manage program finances, including staffing consistent with budget and strategic plan.
• Implement a comprehensive assessment plan to include collecting and disseminating longitudinal program data on Thames student achievement. Additionally, develop and implement plan to collect post-program outcomes.
• Represents the Office of the President on external and internal committees aligned with policy, procedures, and institutional outcomes as concern students who learn differently.
• Continuously assess, evaluate, and update the Thames Program to ensure it remains high-touch and cutting-edge.
• Vet program curriculum to College standards in collaboration with the Vice President of Academic Affairs and ensure program success through alignment with all program objectives and compliance with all college policies.
• Respond to student-at-risk issues as they arise.
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Enrollment Team and represent the Thames program at all Admissions functions; develop and execute a communication plan with prospective students and their families in partnership with the Enrollment Office.
• Use neuropsychological information and testing to evaluate students entering the program. Manage secondary school placement and program development for students with continued IEPs and/or from transition programs.
• Coordinate program-specific student and parent onboarding and orientation programs as well as the annual completion celebration ceremony, family weekend, and all other program-related functions for students and families.
• Coordinate with the Marketing and Communication Team to develop an internal and external strategy for educating constituent groups regarding program mission, strategic initiatives, and overall program accomplishments. 
• Oversee registration of all incoming and transitional students affiliated with Thames at Mitchell College. 
• Partner with the Health and Wellness team to integrate dynamic student wellness strategies throughout the program. 
• Remain current on neuro-diversity and neuro-inclusivity research in residential and academic programs for students with learning differences.
• Develop strategic partnerships with organizations, agencies, and educational entities that support students who learn differently.
• Maintain appropriate knowledge of District policies, requirements, and regulations for students who learn differently.
• Establish department goals, objectives, and strategies; develop and implement programs and services to accomplish overarching program goals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in a related field required. Doctoral degree a plus.
• Five or more years of progressive experience in strategic program development/implementation and in working with young adults with learning differences;
• Experience with a learning/living or residential program a plus; 
• Expertise in Learning Disabilities and the implications for Higher Education; demonstrated advocacy and commitment to student success;
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, along with speaking and presentation skills;
• Outstanding problem-solving and customer service skills with expertise in handling both internal and external constituencies;
• Outstanding organizational and analytical skills;
• Appreciation of diversity and the ability to promote diversity in a college setting while improving students' lives.

Essential Skills / Knowledge:

• Proficient computer application skills required, including knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 
• Experience in program and budget management. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with learning differences to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, and go up and down flights of stairs and may have to carry up to 25 pounds. Ability to travel and work evenings and weekends is required.