The 1890 Universities Foundation advances the missions of Historically Black Land-Grant Universities.  The Foundation is a force multiplier of resources to our 19-Strong Universities and the communities they serve to that we build a better, more equitable 1890 community, together.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic Communications Manager to join our team in Washington, D.C. This is a grant-funded position supported by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding from the USDA Urban and Community Forestry Agency, with funding secured through December 2028.

In this mid-level role, you will be instrumental in amplifying the stories of our grantees and showcasing the impactful work being done across the 1890 Universities. Your expertise in storytelling and proactive approach will help increase funding and awareness for our foundation's initiatives.

As the Communications Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Craft press releases, articles, web content, and outreach tools to engage diverse audiences.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, journalists, landowner newsletters, magazines, and communication teams.
• Engage with partners, grantees, and stakeholders to amplify collective impact.
• Enhance the foundation's online presence through website management, content creation, social media, and email/newsletter campaigns.
• Collaborate with the web development consultant to maintain and update our React-based website.
• Track and assess performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and analytics reports.
• Monitor industry trends and policy news cycles to inform communication strategies and identify opportunities or threats.

If you have the following, we want to hear from you:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field
• 5+ years of communications or public affairs experience
• Nonprofit and agency experience highly preferred
• Strong critical thinking skills and ability to manage multiple projects
• Excellent writing and proofreading skills
• Proficiency with digital platforms and design software
• React: Strong experience in developing user interfaces and dynamic web applications.
• ClickUp: Hands-on experience managing tasks and projects within a collaborative environment.
• Salesforce: Proven ability to navigate and utilize Salesforce for CRM and workflow optimization.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary: $80,000 – $90,000 per year
• Sign-on bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, self-funded 401(k), and generous holidays and paid time off
• Flexible, hybrid work culture
• Mentoring and professional development opportunities

To Apply:

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and portfolio or writing samples in a single PDF file to team@soarenterprise.com.  For more information, please visit www.1890foundation.org.

The 1890 Universities Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.