Executive Director of EXCEL and Affiliated Programs

Executive Director of EXCEL and Affiliated Programs Position Summary

The Executive Director oversees the day‑to‑day operation of EXCEL and other affiliated programs. The Executive Director works with the senior leadership of the university, faculty, staff, and community partners to develop strategic goals, outcomes, and curricula, and then implements those plans. The Executive Director actively engages in securing external funding via grant writing. The overarching responsibility is to develop a program environment that fosters student learning, growth, and independence within an inclusive, supportive, safe, and well‑resourced framework.

• Manage the EXCEL program, the Uniquely Able Academy, and affiliated programs in accordance with best practices and institutional policies.
• Identify and pursue public and private funding opportunities, manage grants and inter‑service agreements.
• Provide forward‑looking and supportive leadership for the team, fostering a culture of respect and inclusiveness.
• Provide strategic and operational guidance for all EXCEL‑related programming.
• Collaborate with staff, campus and community partners to develop and implement outcome‑focused, student‑centered curricula.
• Engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with partners to move program goals forward.
• Work with campus departments to ensure students and families have full access to university services.
• Develop a comprehensive marketing, recruitment and enrollment plan.
• Engage in regular data collection and assessment, providing reports to university leadership, stakeholders, and funders.
• Maintain ongoing communication with key stakeholders and prioritize student wellness and safety.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Master’s degree in an appropriate discipline (e.g., Special Education, Psychology, Social Work).
• 5‑7 years of commensurate or increasing leadership experience in education, social services, or community programming.
• Program management experience in an educational, clinical, or social/community service environment.
• Proven record of successfully managing staff.
• Experience working with external stakeholders, boards, and advisory groups.
• Knowledge and experience working with persons with disabilities.
• Successful grant writing and management experience.

• Doctoral degree in an appropriate discipline.
• Research and scholarships related to serving people with disabilities.
• Knowledge and experience working with DDS, MRC, and other social service agencies.

$120,000–$130,000

Bridgewater State University is an equal employment opportunity employer and considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related condition or any other characteristic protected by law.