Associate Director for Student Programs & Activities

Associate Director for Student Programs & Activities

Applications are now being accepted for the Associate Director for Student Programs & Activities position at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The Associate Director for Student Programs & Activities provides leadership and oversight for the Illini Union's student programming portfolio, including the Illini Union Board, campus-wide events, and student engagement initiatives. This role supports the development and execution of innovative, high-impact programs that enhance student learning, belonging, and campus engagement.

As the community center of the University, the Illini Union draws together all members of the University with approximately 16,000 visits of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests on a daily basis. We are seeking individuals who can help create and foster communities that strive toward this vision. This includes supporting the academic mission of the University by developing environments conducive to student learning and academic success, respecting, appreciating, and advocating for our student population, and supporting the holistic development of all our students.

Job Summary Provides strategic leadership for the programming function, sets direction and priorities, and represents the area as a member of the senior leadership team. Ensures alignment with university policies, advances organizational goals, and collaborates with campus and community partners to maximize program impact.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Leadership
  • Lead, advise and support the Illini Union Board, including leadership development, governance, and operational effectiveness.
  • Direct and oversee professional and student employee performance, leave, and professional development.
  • Direct the day-to-day operations of the department, ensuring compliance and adherence to campus and Illini Union related policies and procedures.
  • Delegate and assign operation and college student advising responsibilities.
  • Coordinate and direct hiring, training, evaluation, and supervision of professional staff and student leaders. Provide coaching, development opportunities, and performance management support.
  • Serve as a member of the Illini Union senior leadership team, representing and advocating for the Illini Union Board and Illini Union Programming.
  • Represent and advocate on behalf of the Illini Union, on campus with student affairs and academic colleagues.
  • Advise campus partners, student leaders, and internal stakeholders on programming strategy and engagement priorities.
  • Lead the strategic direction of programming efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and student learning outcomes.
  • Serve on committees and represent the Illini Union in campus initiatives.
• Program Leadership & Administration
  • Lead and advise on the planning and execution of major programs and events, including Illini Union signature programs (e.g., Late Nighter, Showcase Week, Spring Jam, Winter Showcase Week).
  • Direct and oversee negotiation and execution of performance/entertainment/art contracts and risk/compliance processes for events.
  • Develop and oversee program budgets; ensure responsible stewardship of funds and compliance with policies. Research and apply for programming related grants and funding where appropriate.
  • Lead annual planning, goal setting, and assessment of programming outcomes. Lead organizational development initiatives that enhance program quality and operational effectiveness.
  • Ensure adherence to institutional policies, procedures, and documentation standards.
  • Other responsibilities/duties as assigned.
• Student Engagement & Campus Partnerships
  • Develop and implement programs that support college student engagement, sense of belonging, and personal and professional development.
  • Establish and maintain partnerships with registered student organizations, campus departments, and community partners and expand program reach through collaboration, co-sponsorship, and innovation.
  • Lead assessment of college student needs and incorporate feedback to continuously improve programming.
• Organizational Development, Assessment & Innovation
  • Research, design, and implement assessment strategies…