Wolzien News Deserts Initiatives Manager

Position Summary The Wolzien News Deserts Initiatives Manager will organize efforts to address structural challenges facing Colorado’s news deserts, serve as DU’s primary liaison to local news outlets statewide, coordinate outreach to high school journalists across Colorado, and support DU’s long‑term enrollment strategy by positioning journalism and media studies as a pathway to civic leadership and media careers. Essential Functions Collaborate with news outlets to diagnose gaps in daily news coverage and help develop coordinating systems (assignments, beat structures, community distribution strategies) that connect student talent to these underserved needs. Lead DU’s outreach to high‑school journalists across Colorado in partnership with the Colorado Student Media Association, implementing high‑impact engagement strategies such as campus events, workshops, J‑Day conference participation, and summer or weekend programming. Coordinate journalism internships, applied projects, workforce development opportunities, and community engagement in collaboration with the department’s Director of Internships. Pursue grant opportunities for journalism initiatives in Colorado with the Office of Sponsored Research and Projects and the Department Chair. Recruit working professionals who use industry‑leading technology and techniques to serve as adjunct instructors, ensuring students are career ready upon graduation. Design and implement the annual Wolzien Journalism Symposium of local and national journalists to discuss practical ways to advance journalism in a democracy. Assist the Chair of MFJS with selecting the winner of the Wolzien News Desert Award. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Deep connection to Colorado journalism and/or the media industry. National experience and an understanding of technical and conceptual issues facing the media industry and local outlets. Ability to recruit highly skilled practitioners to teach as adjuncts. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, colleagues, and community partners from a wide range of backgrounds. Strong project and workflow management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent deadlines and drive results. Collaborative approach and coalition‑building orientation. Willingness to learn new tools and systems quickly and to share knowledge with colleagues. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in media, journalism, communication, or a related field. Four to six years of experience in Colorado journalism and/or the media industry. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in media, journalism, communication, or a related field. Six or more years of experience in Colorado journalism and/or the media industry. Physical Activities Ability to sit in front of a computer for an extended period. Occasional requirement to move about the office/campus and to lift or carry objects up to 20 lbs with assistance. Work Schedule Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Occasional night and evening hours may be required. The position will be fully in‑person for six months, after which a hybrid schedule may be considered under the college’s flexible work policy. Application Deadline For consideration, please submit application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) August 1, 2026. Benefits The University of Denver offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit, and an ECO pass. Salary & Compensation Salary Grade: 8. Salary Rate: $58,500. Legal & Equity Statement The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or any other protected status. The University does not discriminate and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, creed, disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other class protected under federal, state, local, or venue laws. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history and National Sex Offender Registry background check. #J-18808-Ljbffr The University Of Denver