Director of Mission
MISSION AND PURPOSE
The mission of St. John's Catholic Newman Center is to equip college students for a lifelong connection with Christ and His Church through the sacraments and a vibrant, inviting community.
The Director of Mission plays a critical leadership role in advancing this mission by leading all evangelization and discipleship efforts of St. John's Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois.
SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Director of Mission fosters a culture of authentic relationships, intentional community, and apostolic formation so that students encounter Jesus Christ, grow as disciples, and are sent as missionary leaders into the Church and the world.
Working closely with the Chaplain and Assistant Chaplains, the Director provides strategic leadership and oversight for all campus ministry initiatives. The Director supervises campus ministry staff and missionaries, ensures alignment with the Newman Center's mission and vision, and builds a sustainable path of evangelization that reaches the diverse student population of a large public research university.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
• Faithful Catholic in good standing and a vibrant sacramental life.
• Deep understanding of Catholic theology and the Church's call to missionary discipleship
• Bachelor's degree or higher, or equivalent professional experience, required
• An understanding of the uniqueness of ministry and size of the student population at the University of Illinois and St. John's Catholic Newman Center
• Commitment to the mission and ideals of St. John's Catholic Newman Center and the ability to articulate the mission.
• Demonstrated history of rallying, inspiring, and organizing others to take action
• Demonstrated history of seeing projects or tasks through to completion
• An ability to work flexibly around the schedules and seasonal breaks of college students.
• Ability to work through conflict and make decisions.
• Strong pastoral sensitivity and ability to accompany college students.
• A passion to lead, form, and encourage our Newman Center team to first be apostles and to form others while receiving and giving feedback.
• Flexibility and availability to be present on nights and some weekends.
• A professional demeanor, including the ability to set appropriate personal boundaries.
• Effective public speaker
• Excellent verbal, visual, and written communication skills.
• Computer skills (Microsoft Office, word processing, and design program)
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Help direct St. John's Catholic Newman Center in achieving its mission, goals, and vision.
• Meet regularly with Head Chaplain and Newman leadership team
• Participate in ministry and leadership meetings guiding strategic planning.
• Assists in writing and directing the annual Campus Ministry budget
• Walk closely with Campus Ministry team offering feedback and guidance to achieve their goals
• Provides strategic leadership for and direct oversight of all Newman Center efforts of outreach, evangelization, and formation.
• Support development initiatives, benefactor events, and alumni engagement.
• Collaborate with marketing on communications to ensure clear and consistent messaging.
• Represents St. John's Catholic Newman Center in campus ecumenical and interfaith religious communities.
• Work collaboratively with Newman Hall RD and RA team on evangelization and discipleship efforts in our dorm
• Serves on committees, commissions, and groups as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The anticipated salary range for this position is $70,000-$80,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package is provided. Relocation assistance and professional development support may be available.
POSITION STATUS: Full-Time, On-Site
