Director of Community Relations

The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law in Sioux Falls seeks a Director of Community Relations to lead outreach, build strategic partnerships, and act as the university's ambassador in the region. Based at USD-Sioux Falls, you will engage businesses, employers, and community organizations to raise visibility and advance workforce development.

The role emphasizes stakeholder engagement, public relations, and the ability to manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment, with

Qualifications

• Experience in community relations or public affairs.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders and partners.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities and projects.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate partnerships with businesses, employers, and community organizations.
• Advocate for the university in the Sioux Falls area and region.
• Support workforce and economic development initiatives aligned with USD's mission.
• Represent USD in public forums and events.

Skills

Relationship management

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic partnerships

Community outreach

Communication

Public speaking

Job description

Job Description

The Director of Community Relations serves as the University of South Dakota’s primary relationship-builder and institutional ambassador in the Sioux Falls metropolitan area. Based at USD-Sioux Falls, this position advances the university’s visibility, reputation and strategic engagement by cultivating partnerships with businesses, employers, community organizations, professional associations and industry leaders. The director identifies opportunities to strengthen connections between USD and the region, promotes university programs and partnership opportunities, and maintains a consistent presence in the community on behalf of the institution. The position emphasizes employer engagement, strategic partnerships, business relations, and support for workforce and economic development initiatives aligned with USD’s mission.

Position Details

• Duration of Term: 12 months
• Appointment: Regular, Full-time (100%)
• Location: Sioux Falls, SD
• Travel Required: Yes
• Weekends/Holidays Required: Yes

Cognitive Requirements

• Analyzing
• Comprehend
• Intense Customer Interaction
• Logic
• Memory
• Multiple Priorities
• Multiple Stimuli
• Pace-average
• Reasoning
• Verbal Communication
• Written Communication

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for sustained periods of time
• Standing for sustained periods of time

Working Environment

• Office Environment
• Networking in public forums

Application Deadlines

• First Consideration Date: 08/27/2026
• Closing Date: Open Until Filled