The Center for Journalism & Democracy at Howard University supports the teaching and practice of historically informed investigative reporting in the service of multiracial democracy. Through academic and financial support, the Center empowers students, faculty, and journalism organizations at Howard University and across the nation’s HBCUs. The Center promotes the values of press freedom, racial justice, and public accountability through research, partnerships, and programming.
For nearly 200 years, the Black press has spoken, written, and delivered truth to power. Now, under the leadership of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, the Center for Journalism & Democracy and its students are writing the next chapter of this rich legacy. Housed at the iconic Howard University, the Center is training the journalists who will report on the most pressing issues of the day.
Opportunity:
The Center for Journalism & Democracy at Howard University seeks a strategic and dynamic Assistant Director of National Outreach to lead the planning and execution of the Center’s signature national events and outreach initiatives. This role is central to advancing the Center’s mission by producing high-profile programs such as the Democracy Summit, Data Institute, Truth Over Power speaker series, and other public forums that engage diverse audiences and strengthen the Center’s national impact.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Assistant Director of National Outreach will oversee all aspects of event development and outreach, from concept to execution, ensuring seamless coordination and exceptional program quality. This position will collaborate closely with the Communications Specialist and other team members to integrate audience engagement, marketing strategies, and promotional efforts into every initiative.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished project manager and creative problem-solver with experience in event production, logistics, and program design. They will possess strong aesthetic and editorial judgment, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to inspire and manage student interns in support of the Center’s work.
Responsibilities:
Event strategy & execution
- Lead the planning and delivery of the Center’s flagship programs, including the Democracy Summit, Data Institute, and Truth Over Power series.
- Develop project plans and timelines, coordinate speaker selection, shape program agendas, and ensure seamless execution for both in-person and virtual events.
- Manage logistics, including venue selection, contracts, catering, A/V and technology, travel, accommodations, registration, and on-site setup.
Partnerships & communications
- Cultivate partnerships with academic institutions, media organizations, and community stakeholders to broaden event reach and impact.
- Collaborate with the Communications Specialist to create event branding, promotional campaigns, and marketing collateral.
- Leverage social media, email campaigns, and press outreach to drive attendance and increase visibility.
Project & budget management
- Use project management tools to assign tasks, track progress, and meet deadlines.
- Develop and manage event budgets, maintain accurate financial records, and ensure cost-effective delivery of programs.
- Coordinate with co-sponsors and partners to maximize resources and ensure successful collaboration.
Team leadership & evaluation
- Supervise and mentor student interns, volunteers, and event support staff, delegating tasks effectively and providing clear guidance.
- Collect and analyze event data, including attendance, participant feedback, and media coverage, and prepare post-event reports to inform future programming and demonstrate impact.
Ideal Candidate:
- Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and timelines with exceptional organization and attention to detail.
- Experience designing and executing high-profile academic or intellectual events, such as conferences, symposia, or lecture series, with a focus on content quality and audience engagement.
- Proficiency with project management and collaboration tools such as Asana, Zoom, and Slack, as well as office software including Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.
- Strong aesthetic sense and editorial judgment for event programming, branding, and promotional materials.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting formal remarks, writing announcements, and preparing event materials.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor interns or junior staff effectively.
- Commitment to press freedom, democracy, and social justice.
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public policy, social sciences, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
- At least five years of relevant experience in program or event coordination, project management, communications, or a related field, with experience in media, academic, or nonprofit settings strongly preferred.
- Washington, D.C.–based candidates strongly preferred, with the ability to work in-office two to three days per week.
Location: Washington, DC
DRiWaterstone is proud to lead this search on behalf of the Center for Journalism & Democracy at Howard University.
