Hesed Transition Program Director

Concordia is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and in the world.

Position Summary

The Hesed Transition Program Director champions an comprehensive postsecondary experience for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, grounded in Lutheran theology of vocation, dignity, and belonging. This leadership role advances student success through strategic program development, academic inclusion, career preparation, campus engagement, and faith formation.

The Director manages program operations including budgets, grants, and IRIS compliance; supervises and develops program staff; builds partnerships across campus and community; and ensures continuous improvement through assessment. Reporting to the Vice President for Student Success, this position requires a visionary leader committed to creating equitable opportunities and Christ-centered care.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement a strategic vision integrating faith, learning, and student development
• Establish measurable outcomes for student success, including academic, vocational, social, and faith growth, ensure these outcomes are tied to admission of students, program curriculum, and requirements of the program for completion
• Lead program assessment and continuous improvement efforts
• Ensure alignment with institutional mission, Lutheran identity, and inclusive education best practices

Operations & Administration

• Develop and manage program budget, including grants and donor-funded initiatives
• Ensure services align with Wisconsin Department of Health Services IRIS guidelines, including compliance, documentation, and appropriate use of participant-directed funds
• Collaborate with IRIS participants, consultants, and providers to coordinate services and maintain program integrity
• Collaborate with billing to ensure distribution of IRIS funds to Hesed families
• Oversee admissions strategy, enrollment management, and retention planning
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies, disability laws, and grant requirements
• Prepare reports for senior leadership and external stakeholders

Parent Relations

• Address concerns and problem-solve when challenges arise during the student's college experience
• Maintain regular contact with families about student progress and program activities
• Set realistic expectations about what the program can and cannot provide
• Serve as a point of contact when families have concerns about their student
• Gather family feedback about program effectiveness and areas for improvement
• Include family perspectives in program planning and development

Supervision & Team Development

• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate program staff
• Foster a team culture grounded in service, vocation, and Christian care
• Provide professional development for staff based on data, student needs, and staff needs
• Participate in Hesed on-call responsibilities, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution
• Train and supervise staff on IRIS program expectations, documentation, and compliance
• Guide staff in developing student progress reports and program completion reports
• Ensure team members understand boundaries of IRIS funding and allowable services

Campus & External Partnerships

• Collaborate with academic departments to expand inclusive course access
• Partner with Campus Ministry to support student faith engagement
• Cultivate relationships with community organizations, employers, and families
• Represent the program in university committees and external networks
• Expand funding sources for student tuition emphasizing creating equitable opportunities for all individuals with IDD
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience
• Experience in inclusive postsecondary education, disability services, or student affairs