Auburn University · 2 days ago
Director of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)
Auburn, AL
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
$61K/yr - $104K/yr
5+ years expAuburn University is seeking a Director for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) who will provide strategic and operational leadership for the program. The role involves overseeing administration, programming, fundraising, and community engagement to support lifelong learning opportunities for adults over 50.
EducationHigher EducationUniversities
Responsibilities
Guides and implements OLLI activities in collaboration with the Advisory Council, university administration, and other departments; develops both short-term and long-range plans that support OLLI’s mission and align with University Outreach’s strategic objectives
Provides leadership to staff and volunteers to plan and deliver a schedule of in-person and virtual academic and non-academic classes, public programs, workshops, and social activities throughout three quarters and the summer term; regularly assesses program quality and audience satisfaction. Collaborates closely with volunteer leadership and OLLI staff to design and implement engaging, accessible programming that spans the arts, humanities, and sciences, as well as social and physical activities tailored for adults over 50. Ensures that offerings reflect diverse interests within the community and supports lifelong learning and enrichment opportunities for all members
Conceptualizes, administers, and oversees fundraising and development efforts, including building and grounds maintenance, program finances, scholarships, and seeking external funding through grant organizations
Initiates, organizes, and maintains partnerships with University Outreach units, campus departments, and external organizations to enhance programming and community engagement; communicates regularly with the OLLI National Resources Center, providing required reports and tracking Auburn’s progress compared to other OLLI campuses; coordinates with OLLI at Auburn University at Montgomery and attends relevant regional and national meetings
Oversees the development and management of the Institute’s budget, ensuring strict adherence to Auburn University’s financial policies and procedures. In collaboration with the OLLI office manager and Outreach Central Administration, prepares a comprehensive three-year budget plan to guide long-term fiscal sustainability. Provides strategic oversight of all financial operations, including monitoring expenditures, managing revenue streams, and ensuring optimal resource allocation. Partners with Outreach Advancement to lead fundraising initiatives, including support for OLLI’s capital campaign, and actively cultivates and maintains relationships with donors to advance the Institute’s mission and financial growth
Assesses and implements membership enrollment goals by guiding volunteer committee strategies for recruitment, maintenance, and retention; develops strategies to attract a wide range of members and strengthen participation
Oversees publicity and communications, including maintaining website content, collaborating on promotional materials, and utilizing media outlets such as newspapers, radio, and social media for local and regional advertising and promotion
Coordinates with campus facilities management to oversee OLLI administrative offices, negotiates space for academic and social programs, and adapts facilities for virtual classrooms as needed
Supervises and leads the OLLI staff team, including full-time administrative staff, program administrators, temporary employees, student workers, and interns; responsible for training, evaluating, recommending pay and promotions, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all staff and volunteers
Qualification
Required
Master's degree in Adult Education, Communications, Management, or a closely related field
5 years of experience in an academic setting working with administrators; experience working with volunteers
Demonstrated experience working within an academic environment, collaborating effectively with administrators and engaging with volunteers
Proven expertise in the planning, administration, and development of fee-for-service, non-credit educational programs
Comprehensive understanding of outreach initiatives and the mission of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at a land-grant university
Knowledge and experience in fundraising and donor stewardship
Extensive experience in budget development, staff supervision, and the ability to critically analyze and improve departmental operations
Advanced strategic planning and program evaluation skills
Ability to identify, pursue, and secure extramural funding opportunities
Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, engaging effectively with a diverse range of individuals
Active participation in professional associations related to outreach, professional, and continuing education
Thorough knowledge of higher education policies and procedures, particularly those related to Carnegie and SACS guidelines for outreach and engagement, as well as university operations, strategic planning, and program evaluation
Benefits
Generous benefits
Educational opportunities
Culture of support and work/life balance
Company
Auburn University
Auburn University is an institute of higher learning that offers undergraduate and graduate courses.
5001-10000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Auburn University has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (75)
2024 (83)
2023 (79)
2022 (50)
2021 (50)
2020 (35)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$25.89MKey Investors
National Safety CouncilDENSO’s North America FoundationNational Institute of Food and Agriculture
2025-06-25Grant· $0.05M
2024-10-30Grant
2024-06-26Grant· $0.89M
Leadership Team
Kelli Shomaker
Sr. V-P for Business and Administration and CFO
Katherine Alldredge
Executive Support Specialist to VP Advancement & Chief Operations and Strategy Officer
Recent News
Verified Market Research
2025-11-07
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