Executive Director, NGRREC

Executive Director, National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC)

Lewis and Clark/**************************************************************************
* ** Executive Director
** invites visionary, collaborative, and mission-driven leaders to apply for the role of Executive Director of the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC). This role offers a unique opportunity to lead one of the nation’s premier freshwater识 research and education centers, advancing science, stewardship, and community engagement along the Mississippi River and its tributaries.

$103,413 / yr – $175,802 / yr

The Executive Director provides strategic and operational leadership for NGRREC, reporting to the President and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Responsibilities include setting strategic direction, advancing interdisciplinary research, fostering watershed literacy, ensuring fiscal stability, and aligning NGRREC initiatives with the college’s values of student success, equity, innovation, sustainability, and community partnership.

• Develop and implement NGRREC’s strategic plan in alignment with Lewis and Clark Community College’s mission and values.
• Provide leadership for interdisciplinary research and education initiatives related to river ecology, watershed dynamics, and environmental stewardship.
• Shape and execute a bold vision for NGRREC’s future, aligned with Lewis and Clark Community College’s mission snippets and regional priorities.
• Lead long‑range planning, program development, and strategic partnerships across academia, government, and nonprofit sectors.
• Advance NGRREC’s national reputation in freshwater science, watershed literacy, and conservation policy.
• Oversee scientific research initiatives focused on river ecology, watershed dynamics, land conservation, and emerging environmental challenges.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and secure external fundingxtures through grants, contracts, and philanthropic support.
• Translate research into actionable insights for policymakers, landowners, and community stakeholders.
• Guide the development of K‑12, adult, and professional education programs that promote watershed literacy and environmental stewardship.
• Support public engagement through community science, citizen monitoring, and outreach events such as the STREAM Series.
• Ensure alignment with Illinois Learning Standards and national environmental education guidelines.

• Serve as the public face of NGRREC, representing the center in regional, national, and international forums.
• Cultivate and foster relationships with academic institutions, elected officials, government and regulatory agencies, and conservation organizations to advocate for sustainable river management.
• Promote NGRREC’s work through compelling storytelling, media engagement, and strategic communications.

• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of scientists, educators, and support staff.
• Manage budgets, facilities (including the LEED‑certified Confluence Field Station), and compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
• Implement adaptive management practices andقادريك continuous improvement strategies.
• Develop NGRREC revenue streams connecting academic and credentialing pathways at Lewis and Clark.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in environmental science, ecology, hydrology, or related field.
• Proven leadership experience in research institutions, environmental nonprofits, or higher education.
• Strong track record in grant writing, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to inspire diverse audiences and build consensus.

• Deep understanding of river systems and watershed science.
• Commitment to equity, access, and community‑based science.
Visionary thinker with pragmatic execution skills—able to balance innovation with operational rigor.

Lewis and Clark is a student‑focused institution that empowers people…