Position Title: Executive Director

Salary: $100,000.00 per year

Position Type: Full-Time

Benefits: KCC does not currently offer a benefits package. ED will help guide the organization to establishing a benefits package for employees.

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Located on the Sycuan Reservation in El Cajon, CA, Kumeyaay Community College (KCC) was established to support the cultural identity, sovereignty, and self-determination of the Kumeyaay Nation. KCC offers a unique educational experience for Native and non-Native students, focusing on the language, philosophy, arts, and history of the Kumeyaay Nation with additional courses in federal Indian law, policy, and computer skills.

Guided by the Sycuan Resolution (No. 2003-11), KCC integrates Indigenous knowledge and lifestyle into education, promoting high social, economic, and cultural standards for the Kumeyaay Nation. KCC’s mission is to provide quality education through an Indigenous worldview, engaging in research, education, and cultural preservation.

KCC serves the thirteen (13) bands of the Kumeyaay Nation, emphasizing Indigenous sovereignty, family values, and a supportive learning environment.

Mission

KCC’s mission is to offer quality education promoting:

• Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination

• Preservation of Indigenous values

• A supportive community learning environment

• Cultural education and cognitive development

• Curriculum that prepares students for a diverse global society

THE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

Kumeyaay Community College (KCC) is seeking an Executive Director who will report directly to the Board of Directors, providing strategic and operational oversight for the college’s daily operations, staff, programs, and future growth. This leadership role requires a candidate who exemplifies visionary leadership, operational excellence, community engagement, and the utmost duty of care to the organization and all it represents.

The Executive Director will ensure that KCC’s programming, curriculum, organizational culture, actions, and transactions are respectful and aligned with the cultural values of the Kumeyaay Nation. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a tribal education institution dedicated to providing a supportive educational experience focused on Kumeyaay Studies.

Join KCC and contribute to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Kumeyaay Nation while also fostering a vibrant educational environment for Native and non-Native students alike.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Candidates for the position of Executive Director should exemplify the following key responsibilities:

Visionary Leadership

• Develop and implement KCC’s vision in alignment with Kumeyaay values.

• Strategically grow the organization by developing and managing a comprehensive strategic plan.

Community Engagement

• Actively involve the Kumeyaay people and communities in the planning and implementation of strategic initiatives.

• Build strong relationships and foster a culture of advocacy and outreach.

Cultural Relevance

• Ensure that programs, activities, and initiatives honor the Kumeyaay culture while maintaining academic and operational excellence.

Cultural Preservation

• Actively promote the preservation of the Kumeyaay culture, history, language, and heritage.

• Take a leading role in cultural preservation for the Kumeyaay Nation.

Fiscal Responsibility

• Manage the organization’s resources diligently and with the utmost care.

• Maintain a culture of fiscal responsibility to ensure a sustainable future.

Governance

• Implement policies and practices that ensure proper governance and compliance.

• Protect the integrity and reputation of the organization.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure proper management and development of the organization’s staff.

• Create a work environment that fosters collaboration, respect, and cultural competence.

Student Success

• Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

• Promote culturally relevant and academically thorough curricula and programs.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field.

• Five (5) years of education administration or senior leadership experience with tribes or tribal organizations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Education, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field.

• Experience in Community College Administration.

• Experience in Cultural Preservation and Education programs.

• Experience in setting and measuring student success.

• Experience in nonprofit management.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Knowledge of Indigenous Cultures: Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, with a focus on Kumeyaay history, traditions, and customs.

Leadership Skills: Ability to provide strategic direction and inspire teams toward KCC’s vision.

Communication: Strong communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholders and advocate for Indigenous education.

Financial Management: Proficiency in financial management practices to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.

Cultural Competence: Capability to foster an inclusive learning environment that honors Indigenous perspectives.

Relationship-Building: Aptitude for building relationships with tribal leaders, community members, and educational partners.

Team Management: Skills to recruit, develop, and lead a diverse staff effectively.

Advocacy: Strong advocacy skills to champion Kumeyaay interests and Indigenous education initiatives.

Problem-Solving: Ability to address challenges and promote innovation within the organization.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Dedication to upholding equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of educational institution operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Executive Director will work in a dynamic office environment that combines administrative duties and activities, community engagement, and strategic leadership. This role involves frequent interaction with tribal leaders, community members, and external partners, extending beyond the office.

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION

The Executive Director position offers a salary of $100,000.00 per year. Currently, the position is non-benefited, and the incumbent will be responsible for purchasing and maintaining their own medical, dental, vision, and other insurance plans. As the institution grows, it will be a key responsibility of the Executive Director to identify and implement a comprehensive benefits package for all full-time KCC staff members.

Disclaimer: The information in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance expected in this role. It is not designed to contain, or be interpreted as, a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this role. Employees will be asked to perform other duties as needed.

QUESTIONS?

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