Executive Director, OLLI GMU

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University offers intellectual and cultural experiences in a welcoming atmosphere to Northern Virginia residents in their retirement years. Members seek to enrich their lives through continued learning, as well as share their experiences and talents in a social setting. OLLI offers academic courses, special events and cultural activities in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Classes are offered at Tallwood Annex on the George Mason University main campus, virtually, and in Reston and Loudoun County.

OLLI at GMU operates as an independent 501c3 non-profit, separate from the University.

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall operation and management of the Institute, under the general supervision of the Board President and in accordance with the Bylaws and Policies & Procedures. The Executive Director is an ex officio member of the Board, the Executive Committee and all standing and ad hoc committees except for the Nominating Committee. 

The successful candidate will be self-motivated, well organized, friendly, and professional. This person must be detail oriented, an excellent communicator, able to juggle multiple tasks at one time, and have demonstrated experience in identifying, recruiting, motivating and retaining volunteers.  

Supervises OLLI’s staff. 

Implements directives from the Board; executes Policies and Procedures as directed by the Board and in accordance with best practices of non-profit organizations. 

Collaborates with the President, Treasurer, and Finance Committee on development of the budget. Executes the budget, oversees contracts, and ensures that expenditures are kept within budget guidelines

Promotes and markets OLLI programs and social activities throughout the community.

Manages the operation of the educational program by

• Overseeing preparation, printing, and distribution of course catalogs.

• Overseeing course development, registration and production.

• Acquiring equipment and other media required for office and classrooms. 

• Hiring, training, and supervising qualified support staff.

• Marketing the programs widely

Manages use, maintenance, and security of OLLI facilities at Tallwood Annex.

Manages and coordinates OLLI classes and other activities at locations other than Tallwood Annex, including contract arrangements, scheduling, and coordination with the cognizant authorities as applicable.

Provides guidance and support to committees by

· Attending committee meetings.

· Helping to acquire funds or other items as needed.

· Organizing logistics for events and trips.

Ensures necessary legal and tax documents are produced and  filed according to law.

Attends OLLI conferences and engages and collaborates with other OLLI programs.

Engages with the Provost Office and staff of George Mason University, and with local and state organizations that provide services to older adults, to recruit course instructors and increase OLLI membership.

Develops and presents orientation training for new Board Directors.

Prepares and distributes Board meeting agendas, draft minutes, reports and other materials as directed by the President.

Plans and supports fundraising activities.

Maintains ongoing relationships with members, educators, board members, donors, volunteers and professional staff through regular communication. 

Represents OLLI in the Fairfax community with leaders of business and civic organizations and other community partners such as faith-based organizations, local senior living facilities and service organizations.

Minimum of 3-5 years management experience in a government or nonprofit organization.

Marketing experience preferred

Bachelor’s degree or related experience.

Experience working with senior adults and volunteers in an educational setting.

Effective written and oral communication skills.

Significant operational experience, especially budgeting and office management.

Advanced computer proficiency.

Supervisory experience of 3 or more employees.

Ability to satisfactorily pass a criminal background check.

This position is full-time, on-site at the Tallwood Annex on the campus of GMU in Fairfax. 

Salary: $90,000 - 105,000

For best consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@amorrisonconsulting.com by March 14, 2025.