Operations Coordinator

About The Department

The Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice is one of the oldest schools of social work in the United States. It shares the University of Chicago’s core values and specializes in research, training, and community engagement that addresses complex social problems such as educational inequality, health disparities, and poverty. The school houses three academic centers: the Susan and Richard Kiphart Center for Global Health and Social Development, the Kersten Institute for Urban Education, and the Center for Climate, Health, and Society (CHAS).

The To&Through Project, part of the Kersten Institute, works to improve educational outcomes and equity in Chicago Public Schools. It uses data analysis, inquiry with stakeholders, and impact initiatives to create equitable learning experiences for students through the middle grades to college graduation.

The Operations Coordinator supports the To&Through Project by managing event logistics, communications, website maintenance, and administrative processes. The role reports to the Executive Director, coordinates in‑person and virtual convenings, handles vendor and expense management, and maintains the project’s web presence. This grant‑funded position is open until the primary grant expires on 06/30/2028, after which it may end if new funding is not secured.

• Plan and execute engaging in‑person events, professional learning spaces, and convenings, including venue selection, catering, registration, and AV coordination.
• Schedule and provide technical support for Zoom/Google Meet virtual events.
• Coordinate transportation with CPS vendors for in‑person Middle Grades Network student fellowship sessions.
• Collaborate with the Learning and Engagement team to prepare external speakers, develop guides, and manage scheduling.
• Handle presenter paperwork, travel arrangements, stipends, and required information for successful participation.
• Support scheduling, communication, and promotion of quarterly public events.
• Develop and publish an annual program calendar in partnership with Coaching and Improvement managers.
• Assist with social media and communication logistics with the Learning and Engagement Director.
• Maintain the To&Through website, manage content updates, graphics, and web pages, and collaborate with IT and external contractors.
• Update, expand, and sustain the website in partnership with KIUE administrators.
• Conduct website maintenance edits as requested.
• Analyze GA4 website engagement and event metrics bi‑annually to support impact assessment.
• Arrange logistics for organizational meetings and social activities, including equity meetings and staff retreats.
• Lead special projects and funding development activities as needed.
• Process team expenses, track spending, and adhere to University expense reporting guidelines.
• Navigate the University vendor process with external contractors and internal systems.
• Support the Executive Director in scheduling external partner meetings.
• Take minutes or notes at full team meetings and events.
• Participate in To&Through Project meetings, retreats, equity learning spaces, and development spaces.
• Contribute to the evolution of To&Through’s culture, practices, and ways of working.
• Assist in disseminating To&Through Project data and research.
• Provide feedback to support ongoing mission execution.
• Plan and schedule events, programs, and outreach.
• Identify and resolve event and program needs, including vendor selection and contract negotiation.
• Maintain guest lists, mailing invitations, and event brochures.
• Compile data for event and program evaluation.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Minimum qualifications:

A college or university degree in a related field.

Minimum qualifications:

Knowledge and skills developed through less than 2 years of related work experience.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Demonstrated experience designing and organizing operational systems to manage workflow and tasks.
• Experience coordinating across teams and external partners to advance shared goals.
• Experience navigating organizational software and platforms.
• Resourcefulness and creative…