Executive Director

Illuminations Center for Dyslexia; Meridian (MS); On-site; USD 38,880 - 47,520; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K

40 hours PTO

Continuing Education Fund

Job summary

A nonprofit organization focused on dyslexia in Meridian, MS, is seeking an Executive Director to oversee operations, manage grants, and support the growth of the organization. The ideal candidate will also provide direct dyslexia therapy. Responsibilities include leadership, program delivery, community partnerships, and governance. The position requires relevant experience and a degree in education. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) or equivalent certification preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in education, therapy, or nonprofit management.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and limited travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia.
• Supervise daily operations, including therapy scheduling and team communications.
• Manage grant applications and compliance for therapy scholarships.

Skills

Organizational leadership

Communication skills

Project management

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education, Special Education, or related field

Tools

Google Workspace

Zoom

Job description

The Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families think differently about dyslexia, imagine a world of success, and create a plan to achieve it, is seeking a passionate and experienced Executive Director. This position will oversee all nonprofit operations, manage grants, foster relationships with local nonprofit partners, and support the continued growth of the organization alongside the Founder, Leta Palmiter, as she transitions to focus on the for-profit ventures of Illuminations, LLC.

The Executive Director will also serve as a licensed dyslexia therapist, providing direct services to students during and after school hours, ensuring continuity of high-quality therapeutic support aligned with our structured literacy mission.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Operations

• Provide overall leadership for the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, ensuring alignment with its mission, vision, and strategic goals.
• Supervise and coordinate daily operations, including therapy scheduling, team communications, and facility management.
• Oversee and support staff, contractors, and volunteers; maintain a positive, collaborative workplace culture.
• Manage annual calendar of programs, including conferences, community fundraisers, and special events.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit policies, board directives, and financial reporting standards.

Program & Service Delivery

• Deliver one‑on‑one and small‑group dyslexia therapy sessions using evidence‑based, structured literacy methods.
• Maintain student progress documentation and ensure program quality across all service offerings.
• Support after‑school and home‑school therapy programs as part of a flexible weekly schedule.

Development & Community Partnerships

• Manage grant applications, compliance, and reporting to ensure sustained funding for therapy scholarships and literacy initiatives.
• Collaborate with local nonprofit partners, including the Alliance for Nonprofits, to strengthen community relationships and shared initiatives.
• Represent Illuminations at conferences, community meetings, and public events to raise awareness and build partnerships.
• Assist with donor relations, sponsorships, and marketing efforts in collaboration with the Board of Directors.

Governance & Growth

• Work closely with Founder and Board of Directors to advance long‑term strategic goals.
• Participate as a permanent fixture on the Board of Directors, contributing to organizational direction and governance.
• Collaborate with Leta Palmiter and leadership team to align nonprofit activities with sister for‑profit initiatives, ensuring shared mission success.

Qualifications

• Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) or equivalent certification in Structured Literacy/Dyslexia Therapy preferred.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education, Special Education, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in education, therapy, or nonprofit management.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and lead a small team effectively.
• Proficiency with scheduling, reporting, and digital collaboration tools (Google Workspace, Zoom, etc.).
• Willingness to work flexible hours (10 AM–7 PM Mon–Thu, half day Fri) and limited travel as needed.

Compensation & Schedule

• Salary: $43,200 annually
• Benefits: 401K, 40 hours PTO, Continuing Education Fund
• Travel: Limited, primarily for conferences or partner meetings