Company

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Appalachian State University

Position

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Director of External Affairs & Community Relations

Job Description

This position reports to the Chancellor of Appalachian State University. Primary responsibilities include:

• Coordinate the University’s federal, state and local legislative affairs including developing strategies to develop, maintain, and strengthen Appalachian’s standing with elected governmental representatives, especially members of the NC General Assembly. 

• Under the Chancellor’s direction, work with campus leadership to identify high priority budgetary and policy proposals for consideration by the University of North Carolina President, Board of Governors, and NC General Assembly. Upon approval by the UNC leadership, develop a coordinated and consistent message regarding legislative priorities and facilitate advocacy efforts of multiple university bodies targeted at state-level issues and support. 

• Serve as the university liaison with the members and staff of the NC General Assembly, the UNC General Administration State Relations and Federal Relations offices, NC’s Congressional delegation and staff, the Watauga County Commissioners, the Boone Town Council, federal agencies, and other quasi-government entities. 

• Under the Chancellor’s direction, partner with campus colleagues to respond to information requests from the NC General Assembly and other governmental entities. 

• Engage with members of the UNC State Relations Council to deliver a unified UNC budget and policy agenda to members of the NC General Assembly.

• Serve as primary staff support and liaison to the Appalachian State University Board of Visitors. 

• Represent the Chancellor at various conferences, meetings, and other forums as requested by the Chancellor 

• Work collaboratively with the Office of Research to provide consultation and support for federally sponsored programs and gain support for federally sponsored grants. 

• Communicate with Chancellor’s Council, Chancellor’s Cabinet, University leaders, and members of the Board of Trustees, Board of Visitors, and Foundation Board, updating them regularly on the status of appropriations requests and bills under review by the NC General Assembly and the Congress that impact the campus. 

• Develop programs to encourage governmental participation and community involvement by constituencies of the university. 

• Coordinate and oversee the preparation of various external reports or inquiries, including filing appropriate disclosure and ethics reports. 

• Serve as a member of several UNC General Administration committees including the State Relations Council, the Federal Relations Council, and the Military Affairs Council. For a complete listing and to apply for the position, see http://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/8957

Expiration Date

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Initial consideration of completed applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. 

Contact Person

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Kelly Henson

Phone

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828-262-2058

Email

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hensonka@appstate.edu