Director of Character Formation

Summary of Responsibilities:

The Director of Character Formation provides strategic leadership, vision, and direction for all student engagement teams within the Character Formation department at Highlands College. Reporting directly to the VP of Character Formation, the Director is responsible for the development, integration, and execution of experiences that foster spiritual growth, community, belonging, wellness, and leadership development. This role directly oversees the Directors of Residence Life, Campus Life & Student Engagement, Housing & Recreation Facilities, and Recreation & Fitness, ensuring alignment with institutional mission and a cohesive student experience.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

Team Leadership & Oversight

- Lead and supervise the Directors responsible for Residence Life, Campus Life & Student Engagement, Housing & Recreation Facilities, and Recreation & Fitness.

- Support, coach, and develop Directors in the implementation of department strategy and culture.

- Foster collaboration and alignment across all student engagement areas under Character Formation.

- Ensure clarity of roles, performance expectations, and accountability structures across the department. Vision & Strategy Development

- Lead the strategic direction for student life experiences in alignment with Highlands College’s mission and the VP’s vision.

- Shape and articulate the culture and tone of student life, rooted in character formation.

- Identify opportunities to expand and enhance student experiences as enrollment grows.

- Champion and model Character Formation values across the college.

Experience Design & Program Development

- Oversee the development of experiences, events, and traditions that foster spiritual formation, leadership, and community.

- Ensure high-quality implementation of programs such as Welcome Week, Student Leadership Development, Chapel Series, and Traditions.

- Partner with other departments (e.g., Academics, Communications, Safety, Student Success) to create a seamless and holistic student journey.

Student Engagement & Formation

- Ensure all initiatives foster meaningful engagement and support student growth in character, leadership, and faith.

- Monitor trends, participation, and feedback to inform improvements in program design and delivery.

- Maintain high visibility with students to foster trust, care, and alignment with student needs.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

- Serve as a member of college-wide leadership teams and committees representing Character Formation.

- Collaborate with the Director of Operations & Administration to align project execution, scorecard tracking, and cross-team priorities.

- Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to support student-centered decision-making.

Other Duties:

- Participate in ministry at Church of the Highlands and Highland College by leading small groups.

- Affirm and uphold the Statement of Faith and the Core Values and DNA of the College, exemplifying all by word and lifestyle.

Leadership Requirements:

- Report directly to the VP of Character Formation.

- Lead and develop multiple Directors across diverse areas of the student experience.

- Represent Character Formation within college-wide strategic discussions.

- Demonstrate executive presence and alignment with institutional leadership.

- Provide visible, accessible leadership to both students and staff.

Qualifications

Personal Characteristics:

- Visionary leader with a passion for spiritual and student formation.

- Relational and collaborative leadership style.

- Humble, dependable, and mission aligned.

- Encouraging and empowering with a strong presence and spiritual authority.

Essential Traits:

- Leadership

- Culture-carrier

- Communication skills

- Visionary

- Developer

Abilities & Skills:

- Strong leadership, team-building, and executive management capabilities.

- Skilled in coaching, communication, and organizational leadership.

- Ability to lead through complexity with grace, wisdom, and clarity.

- Experience working cross-functionally in dynamic environments.

Experience:

- 3+ years of experience in student development, spiritual formation, or executive leadership roles in ministry or education.

Extent of Public Contact:

- High

Physical Demands:

- Ability to maintain presence across student programs, events, and campus engagement.

Direct Reports:

- This position directly supervises the Directors of Residence Life, Campus Life & Student Engagement, Housing & Recreation Facilities, and Recreation & Fitness.