About Sacred Heart University:

As the second-largest independent Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers nearly 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University's nine colleges and schools: Arts & Sciences; Communication, Media & the Arts; Social Work; Computer Science & Engineering; Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing; and St. Vincent's College. Sacred Heart stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. The contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts, and at the same time cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change-in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 388 Colleges-2023 Edition, and Best Business Schools-2022 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliated radio station, WSHU, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu

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Job Description:

Reporting to the Senior Associate AD for Communications, the assistant director will assist in covering all of Sacred Heart's varsity sports and will be the primary contact for selected sports. The assistant director will serve as the liaison between the media, student-athletes and coaches.

Responsibilities Include:

• Serve as the primary athletic communications for assigned athletic programs.
• Coordinate all aspects of publicity efforts for those sports, including but not limited to - in-game and historical statistics, preparation and dissemination of information to the media and promotion of student-athletes and coaches to media and for postseason and weekly awards.
• Work closely with production staff on NEC Front Row and other broadcasts, assist in production of content for YouTube, social media and in-game video board content
• Assist with the management of graduate students, interns and student workers.
• Provide support as member of stat crews, public address announcer, etc.
• Maintain the athletic website with pre and post game stories, stats, records, etc.
• Participate in creation and implementation of department social media strategy and campaigns to increase publicity and event attendance
• Serve as key strategist and producer for the creation of engaging content to promote events, accolades, awards and recognition of Sacred Heart Athletics.
• Help maintain historical records and archives to produce content on alumni and past teams.
• Serve as a key member of Athletics Department Communications and Marketing team that makes decisions shaping the department's communication.
• Assist in providing creative direction within the Communications and Marketing team, facilitating a cohesive execution of creative materials.

Requirements:

Statement of Personal & Organizational Responsibility for Diversity and Inclusion

Actively promote a collegial environment and consciously apply our mission and values to create a culture of inclusion and belonging; a safe space where all may thrive and succeed. Participate in developmental activities to increase understanding and awareness of issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion; apply that understanding to guide your approach to all aspects of your job and the community as a whole. Demonstrate that we are "Stronger Together" as described in the Office for Diversity & Inclusion's Mission and Vision statements.

Knowledge and Skills Needed:

• Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent, in communications, journalism, sports management or a related field of study. 2-3 years of experience in a college or professional athletic setting as graduate assistant, full-time intern or full-time employee.
• Candidates should have strong oral and writing skills, proficiency In desktop publishing (Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, etc.), experience with in-game statistical software (Genius & StatCrew) new media applications (Instagram Twitter, etc) and basic computer applications
• Advanced proficiency in writing and interviewing with knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Premiere Pro and Photoshop.
• Advanced proficiency in use and knowledge of all social media platforms, specifically Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
• Proficient knowledge of full range of production techniques including graphics, photography, videotaping, lighting, editing methods and equipment.
• Must possess a valid state driver's license.

Application Instructions:

Please apply online, faxes and emails will not be accepted. A cover letter is appreciated.

Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.