Director Curriculum & Outreach (Slavery North)

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Director for the Curriculum & Outreach role within the Slavery North initiative. This position involves managing outreach strategies, organizing events, and developing curricula related to Transatlantic Slavery studies. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background and experience in public engagement, with a commitment to advancing social justice through education.

Qualifications

• Expertise in Transatlantic Slavery Studies and Visual Culture of Slavery.
• At least three years of professional or supervisory experience.
• Publication record with at least four publications.

Responsibilities

• Organize and promote events such as conferences and exhibitions.
• Develop and deliver curricula for diverse audiences.
• Identify and write grant proposals for Institute activities.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Collaborative skills

Education

MA in Art History or related field

Job description

Director Curriculum & Outreach (Slavery North)

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About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450 acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued—and thrives. It offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek solutions to environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges.

Slavery North Initiative

Slavery North is an academic and cultural destination where scholars, thinkers, artists, and cultural producers build community and produce research that transforms understanding of Transatlantic Slavery histories in Canada and the US North. It aims to advance social justice by recuperating and interrogating these complex histories, centering the cultures, experiences, and resistance of enslaved peoples. The initiative includes a fellowship program supporting national and international students, artists, and scholars to produce transformative research outcomes.

Job Summary

The Director manages strategies to interpret and share research findings with academic and professional organizations, communities, and media. Responsibilities include collaborating with researchers, reviewing publications, organizing events (panels, exhibitions, screenings, conferences, workshops), and developing curricula for diverse audiences. The role involves planning and executing public outreach, media relations, social media management, grant writing, curriculum development, and supervision of staff and students.

Essential Functions

1. Organize and promote events such as conferences, exhibitions, screenings, and workshops, managing all logistics.
2. Document and disseminate Institute activities for funding, social media, and public engagement.
3. Support Fellows in publicizing their research through social media and outreach.
4. Secure legal permissions for images and recordings.
5. Identify and write grant proposals for Institute activities.
6. Develop and deliver curricula related to Institute mandates for various audiences.
7. Coordinate with campus departments and external partners for events and conferences.
8. Curate art exhibitions and develop related educational programming.
9. Act as media liaison, organizing media bookings and public outreach.
10. Create marketing materials and manage social media channels, including developing podcasts.
11. Represent the Institute at conferences and community events to expand its reach.
12. Supervise undergraduate and graduate staff and maintain professional relationships.
13. Stay informed on current events relevant to the Institute’s mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• MA in Art History or related field.
• Expertise in Transatlantic Slavery Studies, Visual Culture of Slavery, Black Diaspora, African American, or African Canadian Studies.
• At least three years of professional or supervisory experience, including teaching or research in related areas.
• Evidence of research in Humanities or Fine Arts concerning Transatlantic Slavery and the Black Diaspora.
• Publication record with at least four publications and presentations at academic conferences.
• Experience in coordinating academic conferences and curriculum development.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaborative skills.
• Ability to represent the Institute professionally across diverse groups.
• Reliable commuting to various locations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Contributions to issues related to the Institute’s mandate areas.
• Effective public speaking and educational skills.
• Knowledge of social media and media relations.
• Organized, creative, personable, and enthusiastic about education.
• Interest in the Institute’s focus areas.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions

• Typical office environment with event setup responsibilities.
• Ability to travel and work at various locations as needed.

Additional Details

This position is funded by a grant through November 6, 2026.

Work Schedule

37.5 hours/week with some night and weekend work required.

Salary

Level 28, Exempt.

Application Instructions

Upload your cover letter, resume, and completed application. References will be checked at the final interview stage. Early applications are encouraged. The position remains open until filled.

UMass Amherst is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action policies.