Executive Director, Community Care & Education Center

Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; Carbondale (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s College of Health and Human Sciences seeks an inaugural Executive Director for the Community Care and Education Center (CCEC), with a 0% Faculty appointment, opening in 2026. This role leads strategy, operations, revenue growth, and cross-disciplinary research across four core programs and co-located faculty.

The Executive Director will secure external funding, oversee budgeting, and cultivate partnerships with community stakeholders and government

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in health, behavioral health or administrative discipline.
• At least 3 years of administrative or supervisory experience in a social service organization, childcare/development setting, educational environment, or related field working with health and behavioral health clientele.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive.
• Seven years of nonprofit leadership, fundraising or related experience (may substitute for seven years of experience).
• A bachelor’s or master’s in nonprofit management or closely related subject may be substituted for the seven years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Center’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.
• Convene and lead a cross-disciplinary leadership team of program directors and faculty leaders.
• Participate in the Dean's Leadership Team.
• Supervise, coach and develop program directors with an eye towards program expansion, innovation and impact.
• Hire, train and supervise an Administrative Assistant to support the Center’s operations.
• Ensure coordination and alignment across programs housed within the Center.
• Promote and support cross-collaboration for research initiatives.
• Develop and oversee an ongoing monitoring system to ensure quality control of all service areas and ensure the safety of clients and participants in CCEC services and events.
• Serve as the Center’s primary external representative.
• Build and maintain relationships with community stakeholders, government agencies, and funding partners.
• Fundraising & Resource Development
• Lead fundraising and development efforts in collaboration with university foundation staff.
• Secure external funding through grants, partnerships, and philanthropic contributions.
• Develop and manage a business office that holds the Center accountable to its budget and financial goals.
• Oversee the growth and long-term sustainability of the Center through strategic planning, capacity building, and resource alignment.
• Drive innovation in behavioral and mental health programming by identifying emerging trends, research, and best practices, ensuring the Center remains a leader in delivering forward-thinking, community-responsive, and evidence-based services.
• Teach 6-credit equivalent in both fall and spring semesters (this teaching load equivalent can be reduced in response to CCEC growth).
• Other duties as assigned by College leadership

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Fundraising

Administration

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Master’s degree in health/behavioral health/administrative discipline

Bachelor’s or Master’s in nonprofit management or related field

Job description

Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s College of Health and Human Sciences seeks an inaugural Executive Director for the Community Care and Education Center (CCEC), with a 0% Faculty appointment, opening in 2026. This role leads strategy, operations, revenue growth, and cross-disciplinary research across four core programs and co-located faculty.

The Executive Director will secure external funding, oversee budgeting, and cultivate partnerships with community stakeholders and government