Ceasd is hiring: Director of Communications (CT) American School for the Deaf in

by Marie Malinosky
Published: December 18, 2024 (2 weeks ago)

THE AMERICAN SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
ANNOUNCES AN OPENING FOR
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

CLOSING DATE: UNTIL FILLED

The American School for the Deaf (ASD) is the oldest school for the deaf, founded in 1817 by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. ASD is committed to serving deaf and hard of hearing infants, youth, and their families in the development of intellect and the enhancement of quality of life utilizing specially designed instruction through an American Sign Language and English Bilingual Approach, empowering them to become educated and self-directed life-long learners.

ASD is located in West Hartford, a town recognized as one of the top ten towns for raising families. West Hartford residents value education, evidenced by the high quality of public and private schools.

SCOPE OF DUTIES

ASD is at a pivotal moment. Over the past five years, we have experienced remarkable growth, now serving over 550 students worldwide. Building on this momentum, we have charted a bold vision for our future in our strategic plan—aiming to strengthen our impact as a leader in the field of Deaf Education and expand our global footprint. Core initiatives in the strategic plan include rapidly growing the presence of our Online Academy, building premiere facilities for our PACES Residential Treatment Program and Autism Expansion, and continuing to pilot innovative programming to serve as models for educators worldwide.

Summary:
Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Director of Communications will be responsible for crafting and promoting ASD’s story while expanding the school’s impact locally, nationally, and globally. This key role will communicate with both internal and external audiences using a variety of platforms.

PRIMARY DUTIES

Leadership Responsibilities
• Serve as a key leader at ASD, partnering with Executive Leadership to ensure alignment in messaging that is consistent with the school’s branding.
• Seek to unify by identifying common objectives within ASD’s programs and bridging those objectives through communications.
• Work with Executive Leadership to deliver critical information internally to members of the ASD community, including staff and the Board of Directors.
• Manage and respond to external requests for information from various constituency groups and coordinate all media relations.
• Extend the reach of ASD by placing stories and content in targeted media outlets that raise the school’s visibility and increase awareness about ASD and our programs.
• Staff the Institutional Advancement/Marketing Committee of the Board of Directors, providing meaningful engagement opportunities related to ASD’s communications and marketing initiatives.

Communications/Marketing
• Develop promotional materials for internal and external dissemination.
• Write and produce print materials for the Executive Director, including speeches, reports, and presentations.
• Provide support to the Executive Leadership Team regarding all aspects of legislative relations.
• Manage marketing efforts to increase enrollment in targeted program areas.
• Oversee ASD’s social media presence and develop content that promotes ASD’s mission, programs, and reputation.
• Monitor website content to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Develop school publications, including American ERA magazine/annual report.
• Provide written support to ASD’s strategic planning and accreditation efforts.

Community Engagement
• Develop and cultivate relationships with various community leaders and constituency groups.
• Manage external special events, including legislative visits, press conferences, and campus tours.
• Maintain positive relations with key constituents, including alumni, legislators, board members, and neighbors.

Experience, Skills & Attributes:
• Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of senior communications experience preferred.
• Demonstrated experience providing leadership and strategic direction for communications priorities.
• Ability to write for diverse audiences using a variety of formats including web, email, print, news media, and social media.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work among a team while respecting opposing points of view.
• Ability to utilize good judgement and tact.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.
• Excellent attention to detail, along with strong time management and organizational skills.
• Practices discretion and maintains strict confidentiality.
• Familiarity with Deaf Culture is a strong asset, including knowledge of or willingness to learn some American Sign Language (ASL).

SALARY AND BENEFITS
• 12-Month position.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Retirement, group health insurance, and other fringe benefits are available.
• $1,000 sign-on bonus after one year of service.

ASD is ALL ways able. If you require an accommodation for applying to this position, please contact the Human Resources Department.

The American School for the Deaf does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s age, ancestry, color, genetic information, learning disability, marital status, past or present history of mental disability, intellectual disability, national origin, physical disability, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, transgender status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or civil union status) work place hazards to reproductive systems, and criminal record (in state employment and licensing).

All applicants will be screened, and the most highly qualified applicants will be invited to interview.

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