Director of Mosaic Program, Disability Resource Center
University of TennesseeAbout the role
Anticipated Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000
The Director of the Mosaic Program provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for a comprehensive, research-informed support program serving students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the University. This role is responsible for advancing the program’s mission by supervising all aspects of daily operations, staff development, programmatic growth, and budget management. Serving as a key member of the Disability Resource Center’s leadership team, the Director collaborates across campus and within the broader community to enhance institutional capacity, promote inclusive practices, and ensure that autistic students have equitable access to academic, social, and career success. The Director also leads strategic planning, community engagement, and development efforts to sustain and elevate the program’s regional and national impact. This position reports to the Executive Director of the Disability Resource Center.
Leadership and Personnel Management
Provide visionary leadership for the Mosaic Program, including direct supervision of professional and pre-licensed staff, oversight of hiring, onboarding, training, and performance evaluation. Facilitate weekly team meetings and lead clinical case consultations to support staff development and student care. Ensure day-to-day operations align with program goals and university standards. Guide long-term planning for program sustainability and growth. Ensure Mosaic remains aligned with institutional priorities and emerging trends in higher education.
Serve as a liaison across university departments—including Housing, Financial Aid, Bursar, Registrar, and Academic Affairs—to advocate for and address student needs. Actively participate on university committees to advance neuro-inclusive policies and practices. Partner with campus departments related to behavior resolution processes, set expectations for behavior, and coordinate conflict resolution efforts. Foster and maintain relationships with external partners including parents, community organizations, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. Represent Mosaic at community events and external stakeholder meetings to strengthen program visibility and partnerships.
Program Development and Assessment
Oversee the development, implementation, and assessment of student and staff programming, including curriculum, retreats, orientations, coaching initiatives, and academic support strategies. Oversee program data collection and analysis, including coaching outcomes, retention rates, and student buy-in metrics. Use data to inform continuous program improvement, annual reporting, and long-term planning.
Partner with faculty to implement inclusive classroom strategies and provide consultations that enhance the learning environment for autistic students. Provide strategic leadership and oversight into the professional development of staff, ensuring effective implementation of coaching practices, crisis response, social interpretation and coaching, and the integration of neurodiversity-informed strategies to support students in navigating college life and transitioning to the workforce.
Financial Management and Development
Manage the program's budget, approve expenditures, and oversee procurement of supplies and marketing materials. Collaborate with university advancement or external entities to identify funding opportunities and support development efforts.
Research and Scholarly Engagement
Engage with research initiatives and scholarly publications to maintain Mosaic's national standing. Present at professional conferences and ensure the program remains competitive and aligned with best practices in neurodiversity support.
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
- Comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity, with in-depth knowledge of the impact of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related neurodivergent identities on the college student experience, including academic, social, career, and transitional challenges.
- Expertise in navigating the intersection of neurodivergence and institutional processes, including classroom management, Title IX, student conduct, campus housing, and other campus environments that impact student access, equity, and engagement.
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective, professional relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners.
- Demonstrated ability to support and mentor autistic students with sensitivity, cultural competence, and a student-centered approach that fosters independence, self-advocacy, and personal development.
- Comprehensive knowledge of disability laws and compliance standards, including the Americans
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