What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Spiritual Life position at Hastings College?
Hastings College is searching for a Director of Spiritual Life. The Director of Spiritual Life provides strategic leadership, pastoral presence, and administrative support for faith development at Hastings College. Rather than serving as the sole provider of all spiritual programming and care, the Director serves as a convener and network facilitator—equipping student leaders, partnering with Hastings College campus organizations (such as FCA, Bronco Catholics, and Cru), and managing relationships with local clergy and affiliate leaders to offer broad spiritual support to the entire campus community with an on-campus focus. Grounded in our Presbyterian founding, honor our heritage by serving students of all faith traditions—acting as an ecumenical convener while maintaining a clear personal faith commitment and formation.
The Director will also direct the implementation of ASPIRE (Academy of Student Preachers Inspiring Religious Engagement), an initiative funded in 2023 by a $1.12 million grant from the Lilly Endowment, Inc. Implemented over a five-year period, ASPIRE is an intergenerational program focused on cultivating preaching that compels diverse audiences, especially young adults, by communicating Biblical teachings in ways that draw upon contemporary culture and digital platforms. ASPIRE’s components include a Christian Ministry Program and scholarships for Hastings College students, a summer Compelling Preaching Conference for active pastors and seminary students, and a residential summer program, Open Call, for high school students discerning a call to ministry.
This position is partially supported through grant funding secured through 2028. The Director will actively seek and secure additional external grant funding and regional partnerships to sustain the role as a full-time position.
Key Responsibilities:
- Campus Pastoral Care & Presence: Provide a warm, visible pastoral presence for student drop-ins, campus traditions, crisis response, and spiritual exploration.
- ASPIRE & Ministry Education: Direct all operational, administrative, and financial aspects of the Lilly Endowment ASPIRE grant. Execute annual financial reporting, manage the Digital Sermon Library, lead marketing efforts, oversee the Christian Ministry Certificate program, and coordinate two summer residential conferences.
- Student Life Collaboration: Partner closely with the Office of Student Engagement to co-sponsor and execute high-energy campus events that enrich student life.
- Faith Network: Build and maintain a network of local community ministers, affiliate leaders, and interfaith representatives to support diverse student faith traditions.
See the job description for the full list of essential functions.
Education & Experience:
- Master’s degree in Divinity, Theology, Student Affairs, or a related field preferred (or equivalent practical ministry experience).
- Active bi-vocational, local ministry, or community engagement role in the region.
- Strong relational skills, grant management experience, passion for mentoring student leaders, and the ability to balance instructional and administrative oversight.
Application Instructions:
To receive full consideration, applications must include a cover letter and resume.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Hastings College is committed to supporting a welcoming academic and employment environment. The College is an Equal Opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship now or in the future.