Founded in 1898, Columbia University’s School of Social Work (CSSW) is the first social work school established in the United States and ranks among the top schools in the country today. It joins rigorous academic theory with real-world practice to enhance the welfare of citizens and communities in New York City, the nation, and around the world. Addressing topics such as poverty, health and well-being across the lifespan, immigration, justice for under-represented communities, and the use of ethical technologies, CSSW has a profound impact on every corner of society today.
Whether students are in New York City on campus or pursuing an MSW degree online, they are mentored by some of the nation’s foremost researchers and social service practitioners in child and family support policies, racial inequity, criminal justice, social work, advanced clinical practice, and related areas.
The Opportunity
CSSW is seeking a bold visionary with proven experience leading change to serve as the Associate Dean, Communications Strategy, Development, and Alumni Affairs (AD). Bringing professional expertise, the successful candidate will be the strategic champion of all the School offers. With deep experience in marketing, communications, development, and alumni affairs, the AD will lead a team of professionals dedicated to creating and delivering best-in-class messages and materials about the work and accomplishments of CSSW and its graduates, faculty, students, staff, collaborators, and supporters with a focus on raising awareness while increasing engagement and financial support.
With a demonstrated commitment to racial and social justice, the ideal candidate will have experience delivering an innovative and effective communications plan that speaks to a wide variety of audiences including alumni, students, community leaders, potential funders, and internal partners throughout the University. They will build and lead a talented and high-performing team to take a “hidden gem” to a new level in terms of public engagement, community awareness, and financial support. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of creativity and innovation in diverse communication strategies and demonstrated experience with media relations, strategic planning, crisis communications, development, alumni affairs, team management, and forging meaningful connections with internal and external partners. They will have strong analytical skills and experience successfully developing and adapting messaging for various audiences with a history of collaboration and consensus-building.
