Director of Community Relations and Impact

Hillel UW-Madison

Role Overview

Hillel UW-Madison is seeking a dedicated and strategic leader to serve as the inaugural Director of Community Relations and Impact. This critical role will focus on promoting Jewish student life, combating antisemitism, and fostering a safer and more inclusive campus environment. The Director will collaborate with university administrators, identity centers, civic leaders, and students to integrate Jewish life into the broader campus community, advocate for Jewish students, and lead educational initiatives addressing antisemitism and other forms of hate.

The Director will report to the Executive Director of UW Hillel and work closely with Hillel International. This role is part of a national effort, piloting initiatives that will serve as a model for other universities.

What You’ll Do

• Develop partnerships with university administrators, faculty, student groups, and identity centers (e.g., Multicultural Student Center, Black Cultural Center, APIA Program, Indigenous Student Center) to promote Jewish inclusion and combat antisemitism.
• Work with interfaith and diversity groups to foster cross-cultural dialogue, unity, and community-building initiatives.
• Facilitate workshops, seminars, and peer-led discussions on Jewish culture, history, antisemitism, and inclusivity. Organize educational events like Jewish Identity Month.
• Equip faculty, staff, and students with tools to address antisemitism and other forms of hate through bystander intervention training.
• Serve as an advocate for Jewish students, ensuring their inclusion in campus activities and discussions. Track and respond to antisemitic incidents and develop long-term strategies to improve campus safety and inclusivity.
• Guide students and staff on navigating challenges related to antisemitism, free speech, and campus culture.
• Develop and manage social media and campus outreach campaigns to raise awareness of antisemitism and celebrate Jewish culture.
• Train students and staff in leadership and advocacy, empowering them to take on roles in student government, Greek life, and other key campus organizations.
• Raise awareness and engage the broader campus community on issues of antisemitism.
• Regularly track incidents of antisemitism, report on trends, and work with campus leaders to mitigate future risks.

What You’ll Bring to the Role

• Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of experience in community relations, Jewish cultural education, or advocacy, especially within a campus setting.
• Deep understanding of Jewish culture, antisemitism, Zionism, and issues related to free speech on campuses.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with experience working with university administrators, faculty, student leaders, and civic partners.
• Passion for fostering inclusive environments, combating hate, and promoting Jewish life on campus.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to facilitate discussions, write compelling content, and advocate effectively.
• Experience with policy advocacy, student government, or campus diversity initiatives is preferred.

What You’ll Receive

• Competitive salary in the nonprofit marketplace. The salary range for this role is $80,000–$90,000, commensurate with experience.
• Exceptional professional development, mentoring, and skill-building opportunities.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, life insurance, Long Term Disability (LTD), Flexible Spending Plan, generous vacation/sick time, and parental leave.
• Independent and hands-on work in an exciting environment.
• A network of terrific colleagues from across the global Hillel movement.
• Travel opportunities, both domestically and internationally, multiple times per year

Why UW Hillel? 

UW Hillel is at the forefront of creating inclusive campus communities, fostering dialogue, and addressing antisemitism. By joining our team, you’ll have the chance to make a lasting impact on Jewish student life and combat antisemitism while working in a dynamic, supportive environment that values diversity and cross-cultural understanding.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Start date will ideally be October 2024.