Program Director

Organization Summary

The mission of Palouse Pathways is to maximize students’ higher education opportunities by providing students and families in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho with resources and support for exploring and pursuing higher education. As we expand our impact to support more local students in more comprehensive ways, we are seeking a Program Director to provide operational and administrative leadership in partnership with the Board.

Position Summary

The Program Director is responsible for overseeing the organization’s daily operations and ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and alignment with strategic goals. This role leads communications and outreach, operational planning, process improvement, and cross-functional coordination to support organizational growth and sustainability. Responsibilities will include: coordinating and publicizing events, maintaining program information, managing communications, documenting student data, and other duties as required. The Program Director is also encouraged to propose new ideas and initiatives aligned with the organization’s mission, subject to Board approval.

Key Responsibilities

1. Event Coordination

• Develop and oversee an annual calendar of events, including workshops, panels, and information sessions.
• Identify, recruit, and coordinate guest speakers and panelists.
• Manage event logistics, including venue scheduling, setup, materials, technology, and hospitality.
• Promote events through newsletters, website, social media, partner channels, and school outreach.
• Collect and analyze data on attendance, engagement, and impact.
• Ensure timely follow-up communication with attendees and partners.

2. Communications & Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships through multiple channels of communication.
• Develop, update, and distribute the Palouse Pathways newsletter.
• Maintain an active and engaging presence across social media platforms.
• Ensure the website is current with events, resources, and program information.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local schools and community organizations.
• Serve as a liaison between the Board of Directors and external partners.
• Provide regular operational updates at monthly Board meetings.

3. Scholars Program Recruitment & Support

• Design and implement outreach strategies to recruit students to the Palouse Pathways Scholars Program.
• Support Scholars programming and provide guidance to participating students.
• Assist in coordinating the Scholar Advising Program program.
• Coordinate scholar meetings and events, including logistics and materials.
• Collaborate with the Board to manage the Student Experience Opportunities database and scholarship, including identifying opportunities, managing scholarship applications, and tracking outcomes.

4. Fundraising & Financial Support

• Assist the Board with communications with donors, businesses, and partner organizations.
• Support grant research, applications, and reporting processes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
• Assist the Board Treasurer with budget development and monitoring.
• Promote responsible financial management and clear communication of income and expenses.
• Contribute to strategic planning and organizational growth initiatives.

Education & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• A willingness to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment.
• Residency in Moscow, Idaho or surrounding town in Whitman County (Washington) or Latah County (Idaho).

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with the higher education admissions process (e.g., admissions, counseling, or related work.)
• Understanding of financial aid in higher education (e.g., FAFSA, CSS Profile, scholarships, federal and state grants).
• Experience with program development, event coordination, or nonprofit organizations.
• Experience working with high school students, families, and educators.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively.
• Proficiency with digital tools such as Google Workspace, Mailchimp, Canva, and social media platforms.

Location

• This is a hybrid position with in-person work at least one day per week in Moscow, Idaho. The Program Director will attend all in-person programming and events.

Compensation

• Part-time position (20-30 hours per week, depending on events and organizational needs.)
• Hourly rate: $25–$30, depending on experience.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter to Doug Heckman at doug.heckman@palousepathways.org.

First review beginning May 15, 2026.