Widener University · 1 hour ago
Program Manager
Chester, PA
Full-time
Hybrid
Mid Level
3+ years expWidener University is currently seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Program Manager to lead and expand the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). This role is responsible for driving day-to-day operations, strengthening program impact, and advancing strategic growth in alignment with the Osher Foundation’s vision and guiding principles.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Lead annual membership‑growth initiatives, including marketing campaigns, community recruitment, and membership‑structure enhancements
Identify and secure community sites to support program expansion
Manage OLLI volunteer committees, including recruitment, meeting coordination, and agenda development
Build and maintain systems to track membership data and produce annual reports aligned with Osher Foundation requirements
Develop and execute community outreach strategies to strengthen partnerships on campus and across the region
Cultivate strong relationships with members and volunteers; implement strategies to enhance engagement and retention
Produce and distribute semester catalogs outlining OLLI programs and activities
Serve as the primary liaison between OLLI and community organizations
Expand access to diverse and underserved populations; increase program reach beyond campus
Lead communication strategies, including social media, digital marketing, and promotional campaigns
Oversee website content, social media presence, and communication technologies
Build and sustain relationships with local and national partners, stakeholders, and resources
Design, coordinate, and deliver workshops, seminars, events, and learning series for members and the broader community
Oversee member registration processes and serve as a central resource for members and staff
Develop and deliver volunteer leadership training to ensure alignment with OLLI’s mission and Widener’s values
Conduct outreach to support member education and strengthen connections with the University community
Manage OLLI members, Advisory Board, and committees to ensure mission alignment and operational excellence
Represent OLLI at national conferences, OLLI network meetings, and University events
Ensure compliance with University policies and Osher Foundation guidelines
Oversee all financial operations of OLLI, including budgeting, revenue monitoring, and expense management
Develop and manage fundraising initiatives that support Osher Foundation and University priorities
Translate program initiatives and research into compelling cases for donor support and funding agencies
Develop communication strategies that support recruitment and fundraising goals
Maintain an up‑to‑date portfolio of donors and funding commitments
Develop the annual curriculum for enrichment courses across on‑campus and community locations
Recruit, hire, and supervise faculty and instructors
Build course schedules that meet community needs, including online, evening, and weekend offerings
Create and manage evaluation systems to assess course quality, marketability, and participant satisfaction
Strengthen connections between OLLI members and Widener faculty/students through experiential learning and collaborative programming
Direct daily operations of OLLI across all locations, including scheduling, staffing, and coordination with community partners
Manage the annual program budget to ensure revenue targets and compliance with Osher Foundation guidelines
Prepare grant proposals and secure additional funding as appropriate
Produce and submit annual reports to University leadership and the Osher Foundation
Oversee registration and billing processes in collaboration with the Registrar and Bursar
Develop metrics, assessment tools, and reporting systems to evaluate program performance
Analyze member feedback and translate insights into actionable improvements for CGCS
Perform other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs and align with the mission, values and goals of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Education, Business, or related field
Minimum of three years of experience in an academic or non-profit setting. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered
Demonstrate strong organization, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and learn new software systems quickly, including Datatel and the University's learning management system
Bring enthusiasm, initiative, and a collaborative spirit; able to work independently or as part of a team supporting creative professionals
Proactively anticipates challenges and recommends effective solutions
Exhibit exceptional organizational and communication abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a solid command of English grammar and usage (critical qualities for success in this role)
Deliver outstanding verbal and written communication across all channels, including phone, email, letters, voicemail, and in-person interactions
Preferred
Master's degree
Experience in continuing education program development and delivery
Background in marketing and recruitment
Company
Widener University
Widener University is a school in Chester Heights.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Eric Behrens
Vice President for Library and Information Services, CIO
Jane Oeffner, PT, DPT, MBA
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