Director of the Center for the Study of Democracy

Detailed Position Description

St. Mary's College of Maryland is seeking an innovative, dynamic, and visionary Director of the Center for the Study of Democracy (CSD). This pivotal leadership position demands a mission-driven approach to provide strategic direction for the next chapter of the CSD, ensuring that all initiatives champion democratic values, promote robust civic responsibility, and help cultivate the next generation of leaders. The new Director will leverage their expertise to elevate the Center’s profile and engage proactively in critical national and international dialogues concerning democratic practices, civic engagement, and constructive civil discourse.

Reporting to the Associate Provost, the Director of the Center for the Study of Democracy is responsible for providing students, faculty, alumni and community members with a wide range of academic and civic engagement programs to complement the liberal arts curriculum at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.  The Director collaborates with an advisory board and community partners that notably includes the Historic St. Mary’s City Commission and the Patuxent Partnership.  As such, a significant aspect of this role involves active community engagement. The Director will liaise and collaborate regularly with existing community partners while continuously expanding the network of collaborators working with the CSD. They will also facilitate the important work of the CSD Advisory Board, managing internal and external constituencies. The new Director is expected to be actively involved in securing funding in support of its programming and network of opportunities.

Operational responsibilities are crucial: the Director must monitor and assess program impact, student engagement levels, and strategic outcomes to guarantee effectiveness and guide continuous improvement initiatives. Sound fiscal management is required, including managing the Center's budget responsibly in accordance with guidance from both the St. Mary's College of Maryland Foundation and the College administration. Finally, the Director will supervise professional and/or student staff and prepare necessary annual reports and presentations for relevant constituencies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Master’s Degree or equivalent advanced degree appropriate to the work of the Center. Established voice/presence as a scholar or expert in a field aligned with the Center’s Mission. Demonstrated success in program development, grant writing and cross-functional collaboration.  Deep and demonstrable knowledge of democratic systems, civic engagement and public leadership. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work flexibly and effectively with various constituencies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Doctoral or terminal degree in a field appropriate to the work of the Center. Experience in higher education, particularly in civic or public service initiatives. Prior leadership or significant responsibility in a setting funded by external revenue.

Any combination of acceptable education and experience, which has provided the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the requirements of this position, may be considered. Employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.  Salary Range is $95,000-$100,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

St. Mary's College of Maryland, the National Public honors College, is in Historic St. Mary's City, 70 miles southeast of Washington, D.C. St. Mary’s College is one of the nation’s best public liberal arts colleges – ranked near the top in U.S. News & World Report and a Best Value for instate and out-of-state students. Non-sectarian since its founding, the college with its scenic waterfront campus is primarily undergraduate and residential, with a diverse coeducational student body numbering approximately 1600. The up-to-date curriculum is designed for today’s students who want an active, hands-on education led by professors who are committed teachers and experts in their fields. The quality of life is enhanced by the recreational opportunities of the Chesapeake region and proximity to the amenities of Washington D.C., Baltimore and Richmond.

St. Mary’s College (www.smcm.edu) embodies diversity and inclusion in its mission.  We create an environment that recognizes the value of individual and group differences, and we encourage inquiries from applicants who will contribute to our cultural and ethnic diversity.  Application materials should include a cover letter, résumé (including e-mail address), statement of how the applicant’s employment at the College will contribute to a culture of inclusion and campus diversity, and three references and submitted online at:  apply.interfolio.com/180249.  Questions may be directed to Katy Arnett at 240-895-4922.

Review of résumés will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. St. Mary’s College of Maryland is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Visit our website: www.smcm.edu/hr

Employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.

St. Mary’s College of Maryland is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.