Executive Director of EXCEL and Affiliated Programs

Executive Director of EXCEL and Affiliated Programs

Title - Executive Director of EXCEL and Affiliated Programs

Department Summary - Bridgewater State University is an inclusive community dedicated to the lifelong success of all students, focused on the continuous improvement of its people, and responsible for leading innovation that benefits Southeastern Massachusetts, the commonwealth, and the world. Bridgewater's accessible environment of teaching and learning stimulates critical thinking, pursuit of new knowledge, and deeper understanding, the cultivation of meaningful and diverse interpersonal relationships, and fostering an appreciation for global engagement, all aimed at transforming lives and improving the human condition. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in our institutional values, which ensure that all students are supported and succeed. The EXCEL Program at Bridgewater State University (BSU) is a fully-inclusive postsecondary program for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Students in the EXCEL program share the same experiences as their college peers in the areas of academics, socialization, professional development, and independent living. Students become more independent and actively engaged in creating and living their lives. Our program honors dignity and worth, and fosters self-determination. Our vision is for full inclusion to be a permanent fixture of the institutional fabric for all stakeholders at BSU.

Position Summary - The Executive Director oversees the day-to-day operation of EXCEL and other affiliated programs. The Executive Director is responsible for working with the senior leadership of the university, the faculty, staff, and community partners to develop strategic goals, outcomes, and curricula for the programs they oversee and then implementing those plans. The Executive Director must also actively engage in identifying and securing external funding for these programs via the grant-writing process. The overarching responsibility of this position is to develop a program environment that fosters student learning, growth, and independence within an inclusive, supportive, safe, and well-resourced framework. Position Type: APA Professional This position may be eligible for hybrid work after the initial 90 days, in accordance with BSU's remote work policy. This is a 12 month, APA position and is subject to the terms of that union agreement.

Essential Duties - Manage the EXCEL program, the Uniquely Able Academy, and affiliated programs in accordance with best practices as well as university and Commonwealth policies and procedures. Identify and pursue public and private funding opportunities through the grant-writing process and manage grants and interservice agency agreements when awarded. Provide forward-looking and supportive leadership for the EXCEL team that fosters a culture of respect and inclusiveness. The team includes professional staff, administrative staff, education coaches, graduate assistants, and peer mentors. Provide strategic and operational guidance for all EXCEL related programing. Collaborate with the staff, campus and community partners, to develop and implement outcome-focused and student-centered curricula and programing. Engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with campus and community partners to move the goals of the program forward. Work with appropriate campus departments to ensure students and their families have full access to university services. Work with campus partners to develop a comprehensive marketing, recruitment and enrollment plan. Engage in regular data collection and assessment to provide regular and ad-hoc reports to the university leadership, the Commonwealth, partners, and funders. Maintain ongoing communication with key program stakeholders including students, families, and district partners. Ensure all programs prioritize student wellness and safety. Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications - A master's degree in an appropriate discipline (Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, etc.). 5-7 years of commensurate or increasing leadership experience in education, social services, or community programing. Program management experience in an educational, clinical, or social/community service environment. A proven record of successfully managing staff. Experience working with external stakeholders, boards, and advisory groups. Knowledge and experience in working with persons with disabilities. Successful grant writing and management experience.

Preferred Qualifications - A doctoral degree in in an appropriate discipline (Special Education, Psychology, Social Work, etc.). Research and scholarships in an area related to serving people with disabilities. Knowledge and experience in working with DDS, MRC, and other social service agencies and organizations.

Work Environment - Bridgewater State University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified applicants and employee with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for the application process, please complete and submit this electronic form.

Special Conditions for Eligibility - Please be aware that employment at Bridgewater State University is contingent upon completion of a successful background check. Bridgewater State University is an E-Verify employer. This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

EEO Statement - Bridgewater State University is an equal employment opportunity employer and considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Type - APA Professional

Salary Range - $120,000-$130,000

Posting Number - S01320P

Open Date - 05/14/2026

Application Review Start Date

Close Date - 06/14/2026

Open Until Filled - No

Special Instructions to Applicants - Please note the following information is required to complete your application for this position:* A minimum of three (3) professional reference entries in space provided on the application form.* Resume/CV* Cover Letter

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. Are you currently a member of a collective bargaining unit that governs employment at Massachusetts State Universities?
   • AFSCME
   • APA
   • MSCA
   • Other

Documents Needed To Apply

Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter

Optional Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae