Executive Director of The National Academy for Free Expression and Pluralism

About the National Academy: The National Academy for Free Expression and Pluralism at the University of Denver’s mission will be to provide programming and foster research among students, faculty and staff on the values of free expression, civil discourse, and pluralism. This will be accomplished in community with several of the country's most prominent scholars and practitioners who represent a diverse range of backgrounds, experience and thought. Curricular and co-curricular experiences on free expression and pluralism will made available to all students; grants will be provided to support internal and external research projects dedicated to free expression; and visiting faculty and speakers will be given a platform to share their experiences and expertise. Over time, the National Academy will expand its reach beyond the university community, with a focus on turning theory and thinking into action and impact by launching a Scholars-in-Residence program to host leading thinkers/researchers, convening an Annual Summit on Pluralism, developing an essential K-12 civil discourse pedagogy, and offering civil discourse training to the corporate community—among other initiatives.

Position Overview: The Executive Director will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the National Academy. This individual will be responsible for advancing the National Academy’s mission, leading fundraising to support a $75-100M program, overseeing its initiatives, and representing the Academy both within the university and in the broader community. The Executive Director will work collaboratively with faculty, students, staff, and external partners to advance a vibrant and inclusive institution for free expression and pluralistic discourse.

Contact Information: For inquiries, please contact Casey Enders, Project Manager, at casey@resolveinc.net or 571-251-6563. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:

• Lead initiatives to position the Academy and DU as national thought leaders in free expression and pluralism.
• Develop and implement a strategic plan and a supporting roadmap to advance the National Academy’s mission and goals.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for growth, partnerships, and innovation.
• Convene and manage the engagement of the Advisory Board on key strategic questions and opportunities.
• Drive outreach efforts to increase visibility and build strategic relationships.

2. Fundraising and Financial Management:

• Develop and execute a fundraising strategy and business plan to raise $75-100M to support the National Academy’s ongoing and expanding programs and operations.
• Manage the National Academy’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and compliance with university policies.

3. Program Development and Management:

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the National Academy’s programs and initiatives, including lectures, workshops, conferences and research projects.
• Collaborate with faculty to integrate free expression and pluralism into curricular and co-curricular activities (or opportunities).

4. Community Engagement:

• Foster relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students and student organizations, university departments, community groups and donors.
• Build collaboration with other institutions and universities engaged in work to support free expression and pluralism.
• Drive awareness of the National Academy and its mission by serving as the primary spokesperson.
• Leverage internal and external opportunities to advance the mission.

5. Administration:

• Identify and address staffing requirements for efficient operations and maintain a strong work culture, including supervising staff and providing guidance and professional development opportunities as appropriate.
• Ensure effective administrative operations, including grant management, reporting and compliance.
• Manage daily operations, ensuring efficient and effective strategic outcomes.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

• At least seven to ten (7-10) years of experience in senior management/leadership, ideally in higher education, non-profit management, or a related field, or a similarly significant record as a widely acknowledged thought leader in free expression, civil discourse, pluralism, or related d