Aquinas College seeks to fill a half-time position of Director of the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s and
Gender Studies Center.
Preferred candidates will have Master’s and/or Ph.D. degrees in Feminist Studies, Women’s and Gender Studies, Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, or a closely related field; will demonstrate evidence of intersectional feminist advocacy and leadership on issues pertinent to women and gender experiences; have experience teaching in a post-secondary Women’s and Gender Studies curriculum; have experience managing teams; and possess excellent written and oral communication skills, including experience in digital communications.
Applicants should have experience with Women’s and Gender Studies co-curricular event planning; experience working with traditionally underrepresented student communities; and experience in community outreach, fundraising, and/or donor relationships.
Also desired are strong organizational skills, maturity, cultural humility, and discretion; an ability to build strong relationships with various stakeholders; flexibility, a growth mindset, and an ability to bring a collaborative approach to the Center. The Director may also teach in the Women’s and Gender Studies academic program. Comfort with technology and graphic design experience with Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite are a plus.
The position is scheduled to begin in August 2026.
The Director of the Jane Hibbard Women's and Gender Studies Center serves as an advocate and educator on issues pertinent to women and gender and is responsible for guiding the Center’s vision and mission through curriculum and programming, including weekly and annual events and educational community outreach.
The Director administers the Center; oversees the Women’s & Gender Studies academic program; supervises student interns; facilitates the initiation and implementation of educational programs through center-related committees, including community liaisons, a programming board, curriculum committee, and biennial interdisciplinary symposium planning committee; responds to program and service requests; collaborates with other on- and off-campus organizations; facilitates marketing of programming and events; provides direct service via resources and referrals to students; works with the college’s advancement team and major donors to enhance the Center’s mission and programming endowment; and promotes the best possible working and educational environment for women and people of all genders at the college. The Director may also teach in the Women’s and Gender Studies academic program.
To be considered for the position, applicants must submit the following: cover letter, current curriculum vitae, copies of college transcripts, three current letters of recommendation with contact information, and a personal statement reflecting how the applicant's experience will contribute not only to the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s & Gender Studies Center mission and vision, but also to Aquinas College's mission and vision.
Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s and Gender Studies Center Mission
The Jane Hibbard Idema Women's and Gender Studies Center serves as a community resource for women's and gender issues, promoting awareness of these issues through its programs and curriculum and empowering students and community members to become advocates for gender equality and social justice.
Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s and Gender Studies Center Vision
The Jane Hibbard Idema Women's and Gender Studies Center prepares students to become catalysts for
change and voices for feminist ideals, both in our society and around the globe.
Aquinas College Mission Statement
Aquinas College, an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic and Dominican tradition,
provides a liberal arts education with a global perspective, emphasizes career preparation focused on
leadership and service to others, and fosters a commitment to lifelong learning dedicated to the pursuit
of truth and the common good.
Aquinas College Vision Statement
Aquinas College will be regarded among the premier Catholic colleges in the Midwest, recognized for its
excellence in preparing the whole person to lead a life of purpose and success in service to a just and
sustainable world.
Aquinas College Diversity Statement
Aquinas College is committed to equality. This statement of the College speaks to this commitment, as do
our history and heritage. We believe that diversity is a blessing, which brings a richness of perspectives to
our intellectual, cultural, social, and spiritual life. All members of our community – faculty, staff, students
– will demonstrate respect for each other regardless of our differences. All of us will be sensitive in our
actions, words, and deeds. We will demonstrate these sensitivities in our classrooms, curricula, offices,
meeting places, and living environments. We will maintain the diversity of our Board of Trustees, faculty,
student body, and staff and appreciate the different gifts each brings to this community regardless of age,
gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or disability.