What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Admissions position at Bethany College?
Bethany College
Lindsborg, Kansas
Bethany College
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS
MUST INCLUDE A RESUME AND A COVER LETTER
FLSA Status:
SALARY; EXEMPT
Department: Admissions
Reports to: Dean of Enrollment
Why Bethany:
Rooted in our Lutheran heritage and the transformative power of the liberal arts, Bethany prepares students to lead lives of purpose, leadership, creativity, and service in a complex and changing world. Located in Lindsborg, Kansas—affectionately known as "Little Sweden" and celebrated for its vibrant arts community—Bethany offers a close-knit environment where faculty and staff know students by name and mentor them in a highly personalized setting.
Education at Bethany is rooted in intellectual discovery and a deep sense of belonging, equipping students to think critically, lead ethically, and serve with purpose. As a small, private, rural college, Bethany plays an essential role in renewing civic life, expanding opportunity, and fostering community revitalization.
At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.
About Bethany College:
Founded in 1881, Bethany College is a dynamic liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas—known as “Little Sweden U.S.A.” Bethany provides a transformative educational experience grounded in faith, learning, and community. The College is dedicated to cultivating leaders who serve and inspire through integrity, creativity, and purpose.
Position Overview:
Bethany College invites applications for a visionary, strategic, and action-oriented leader to serve as Director of Admissions. This is a pivotal opportunity for a collaborative professional who believes in the value of personalized liberal arts education, the power of community, and the promise of rural America. Reporting to the Dean of Enrollment, the Director of Admissions will lead the development and implementation of an innovative, relationship-driven, data-informed recruitment strategy designed to strengthen enrollment, shape a mission-fit incoming class, and advance Bethany’s vision for the future.
Essential Functions:
- Lead and inspire a team of admissions counselors and student ambassadors in the recruitment of first-year, transfer, and international students.
- Develop and implement territory management plans that align with institutional goals and respond to shifting market and demographic trends.
- Oversee the application process, including review, decision policy, and coordination with academic and student support partners and external service providers.
- Collaborate closely with Financial Aid, Athletics, Marketing, Academic Affairs, and key external partners in enrollment management to ensure a seamless and student-centered enrollment experience.
- Design and deliver impactful campus visit programs, virtual events, and yield strategies that reflect the college’s warm, relational culture.
- Analyze enrollment data and CRM insights (experience with Slate preferred) to guide decision-making and measure impact.
- Represent Bethany College to prospective students, families, school counselors, and community organizations with authenticity, enthusiasm, and integrity.
- Partner in advancing Bethany’s mission to educate students “to live fulfilling lives, inspired by faith and love of learning.”
The statements contained herein describe the scope of responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other areas to cover absences or provide relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- At least five years of progressive experience in admissions, enrollment, or related areas, preferably at a small private or faith-based institution.
- Mastery of best practices in relational recruitment for a small, private college according to NACAC professional standards, and the ability to train others.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to lead teams, build cross-campus collaboration, and manage complex projects successfully with creativity and clarity.
- Strong skills in data analysis, enrollment trends, and CRM use.
- Experience with recruiting international students and managing immigration, student visas, and federally required reporting.
- Demonstrated understanding of the critical links among recruitment, retention, academic programs, discount strategy, and financial sustainability, especially in the context of a small private liberal arts college.
- Excellent grammar, spelling, and writing abilities
- Microsoft Office, computer knowledge, and knowledge of office equipment
- Ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, including students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, administration, and the community at large
- Ability to handle multiple projects/assignments concurrently and be very results-oriented
- Highly motivated and works well both independently and in a team environment
Preferred:
- Master’s degree.
- Slate experience preferred.
- Bilingual in Spanish is a plus, or some knowledge of the Spanish language is a plus
Working Conditions:
- Regular and satisfactory attendance and punctuality.
- Office work is at Bethany College - Sit for long periods of time.
- On-site work is generally performed indoors, with ambient room temperatures, lighting, and traditional office equipment found in a typical office environment.
- Evenings and weekends may be required.
- Travel may be needed depending on the recruiting schedule
- Bend, squat, kneel, reach above shoulders, handle objects (dexterity), push/pull, carry/lift 25 lbs.
- Must be available to work weekend and evening hours, including home athletic events, and occasional travel may be required.
- Walking across campus and standing during events.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans
- Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- Tuition remission benefits
- Professional Development Funds
- Possible Relocation Assistance
- Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
- Supportive, mission-driven community and a beautiful campus environment
How to Apply:
- Apply online at Employment
- Submit resume, cover letter, and references
EEO:
Bethany College, an institution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
This policy reflects Bethany College's mission to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. This commitment to equal employment opportunities strengthens our community and enhances our ability to fulfill our educational mission.