PROCESSING APPLICATION
Hold tight! We’re comparing your resume to the job requirements…
ARE YOU SURE YOU WANT TO APPLY TO THIS JOB?
Based on your Resume, it doesn't look like you meet the requirements from the employer. You can still apply if you think you’re a fit.
Job Requirements of Vice President of Community Engagement and External Affairs:
-
Employment Type:
Full-Time
-
Location:
Sugar Grove, IL (Onsite)
Do you meet the requirements for this job?
Vice President of Community Engagement and External Affairs
Vice President of Community Engagement and External Affairs
Administrator
Sugar Grove Campus
Hybrid Option: Option: Yes
Join our dynamic team at Waubonsee Community College, where your career can flourish. We are committed to being an exceptional employer, offering a comprehensive benefits package with generous time off, low-cost medical, dental, and vision plans, and a secure pension plan through SURS. You'll also enjoy 14 paid holidays, including winter and Thanksgiving breaks. Be part of a transformative institution, dedicated to making a positive impact in our community and the lives of our students. Your future starts here - join us today!
Waubonsee Community College is committed to hiring and retaining exceptional faculty and staff who are committed to the college's culture of collaboration, professional growth and student success.
The Vice President of Community Engagement and External Affairs (VPCEEA) reports to the Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff. The VPCEEA provides leadership in the planning, development, and administration of Community Engagement activities and External Affairs within the Office of the President. Included in this position are the functions of strategic development, staffing, personnel evaluation, budget, goal development and implementation. The priority of the position is to develop community partnerships that are mutually beneficial and contribute to the success of students and vibrancy of the community. This position leads the institution's outward-facing strategy and relationships to advance mission, reputation, and growth. The VPCEEA works collaboratively with the EVP to implement and integrate strategic approaches across government relations, community and partner engagement, institutional communications, media relations, and strategic initiatives-serving as a senior advisor while building coalitions that expand influence and impact.
Provide leadership and coordination for a comprehensive program of community engagement. This includes leadership for the advancement and visibility of the College within the community by identifying, building, and maintaining key relationships with community members, community groups, chambers, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders within the community.
Work closely with the President and EVP to develop and implement strategies to build and strengthen partnerships within the community. This role involves creating and executing outreach plans, managing community-based programs and events, and collaborating with other departments to align engagement with organizational goals. Key responsibilities also include representing the organization, supervising staff, and reporting on the effectiveness of community engagement initiatives.
Develop and lead a comprehensive external affairs strategy aligned to organizational goals. This includes the implementation of a College-wide strategy for community engagement, including identifying new partnerships, cultivating new and existing partnerships, advising and supporting the EVP on local, state, and federal engagement strategies with elected officials, ensuring the College's presence on key community initiatives.
Oversee the engagement of College employees in community engagement representation and activities.
Provide leadership for establishing a public relations strategy for the College to enhance the visibility, brand, and reputation of the College. Oversee executive messaging, presidential communications, presentations, public statements, talking points, and thought leadership.
Build and maintain relationships with Media outlets to promote the College to all constituents.
Shape the storytelling narrative of the College's mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities to the community.
Identify and promote exceptional student and staff stories to the local, regional, and national media.
Educate the community on College initiatives and strategies designed to contribute to student success and community vibrancy. Strengthen stakeholder trust through consistent engagement and transparent communication.
Serve as an advisor to the President on matters related to community engagement and public relations.
Lead or support staff leadership, including setting vision and expectations for the engagement team.
Serve as a community ambassador and represent the organization at meetings and external events.
Serve as College Liaison to the Lifelong Learning Initiative, including attending their Executive Committee meetings.
Focus on the three areas of community engagement by demonstrating collaboration, communication, and commitment.
Identify and facilitate the development of strategic partnerships within the community that impact and advance the College's strategic goals.
Represent the President within the community as needed.
Assist the President in the development of appropriate policies and practices.
Serve on the college's committees as assigned and represent the college at special events as required.
Perform other duties as assigned by the President.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in related field required.Master's Degree preferred.
Eight years' related experience in administrative roles required (experience in higher education, government, or non-profit preferred).Five years management experience required. Community College experience preferred.
Must possess significant leadership, supervising, and communication skills.
7 -10 years of progressive leadership in external affairs, public affairs, government relations, strategic communications, or related fields.
Please attach the following documents when applying:
Position Details
req2064
Grant Funded: No
Compensation Range: 152148.00 - 210000.00
Compensation Type: Salaried
Compensation: The pay for this position will be determined by your experience, education, and qualifications.
Work Schedule: M-F 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Work Hours:
Testing: No
Targeted Hire Date: 2/16/2026
Benefits: Click to See Benefits Page
Special Instructions: Please attach copies of transcripts or certifications as applicable. Official Transcripts are required to be submitted if hired.
EOE, including disability and veteran