Job Description

Join the 1890 Universities Foundation and lead a dynamic organization dedicated to advancing collaborative, high-impact programs across the 1890 system of land-grant universities. As the President & CEO, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Foundation and drive its mission of mobilizing resources for education, outreach, and academics at the Historically Black, 1890 land-grant Universities.

About the 1890 Universities Foundation:

Established in 2016, and based in Washington, DC, the 1890 Universities Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable and educational organization committed to supporting the core missions of

(19) 1890 land-grant universities located primarily in the southern United States. As a visionary leader, you will guide a growing organization with a $5 million annual budget and a dedicated team of professionals, making a lasting impact on the communities served by the (19) member universities as well as the higher education landscape.

Role and Responsibilities:

As the President & CEO, you will work closely with the 1890 Foundations Board of Directors to provide visionary leadership, drive organizational success, and empower a high-performing team. Key responsibilities include:

1. Executive Leadership and Organizational Management:

• Provide inclusive, transparent, and empowering executive leadership aligned with the Foundation's mission.
• Develop strategic priorities and gain Board approval to advance the Foundation's
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring long-term sustainability and
• Mentor and motivate internal team leaders to strategically expand programs, partnerships, and collaborative support.

1. Development and Fundraising:

• Lead strategic planning activities to create and implement fundraising goals and
• Collaborate with the Vice President for Partnerships to drive development and fundraising efforts.
• Initiate and extend relationships with federal agencies, private-sector partners, and key
• Prepare and submit proposals to solicit donations and actively participate in donor meetings and events.

1. Board Governance:

• Build strong relationships with the Board, providing leadership and support to
• Ensure effective communication, timely reporting, and informed decision-
• Implement Board policies and procedures, building support among
• Maintain open communication with the Board and its committees, sharing risks, issues, and successes.

1. Program Development:

• Support ongoing programs and innovative initiatives in collaboration with the Vice President for Program Implementation and Innovation.
• Engage with key program collaborators to ensure success for all

1. Financial Management and Administration:

• Provide strategic leadership for administrative and operational functions, maintaining financial integrity and sustainability.
• Ensure optimal resource utilization, budget management, and adherence to financial best practices.
• Administer the annual budget with Board

1. External Relations and Communications:

• Represent the Foundation as the chief spokesperson at events, conferences, and partnership meetings.
• Promote the Foundation's mission, programs, partners, and
• Drive high visibility and build interest in engaged

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate for President & CEO will have the following qualifications:

• Ten + years of relevant experience as a leader at a university, nonprofit, foundation or industry-related organization
• Three to five years of experience as a President, CEO, Executive Director, or in a related position
• Strong business acumen and a track record of visionary leadership at the executive
• Proven experience in organizational growth and successful nonprofit
• Experience working with and leading a nonprofit Board in a mission-driven

As the President & CEO leading the 1890 Foundation, you can expect a compensation package to include:

• Competitive pay
• Great benefits including medical, prescription drug plan, dental, vision, PTO, and an employee-funded 401(k) retirement savings plan

• Extraordinary Culture The 1890 Universities Foundation team is committed to being inclusive and collaborative. The culture of the 1890 Foundation is one that values education, extension, research, and outreach.

Application Process:

Please apply by sending your resume/CV and cover letter to team@soarenterprise.com by August 1, 2025.

1890 Foundation is an EOE!

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