- Senior
- Ufficio in Waterbury
The Director of the English Learning Institute (ELI) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for comprehensive English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) programs delivered both on the main campus and through online platforms. This position serves as the primary advocate for international and multilingual students while ensuring the delivery of high-quality language instruction that prepares students for academic and professional success. The Director will foster collaborative relationships across the institution and with international partners to advance the university's global engagement mission.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Leadership and Program Management
- Oversee all aspects of ESL and EFL program delivery, including curriculum development, assessment protocols, and quality assurance measures
- Ensure programs align with institutional standards and accreditation requirements while meeting the diverse needs of international student populations
- Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance program effectiveness and student outcomes
- Supervise faculty and staff within the English Learning Institute, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities
International Partnerships and Articulation
- Collaborate with other departments to establish, maintain, and expand partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and organizations in other countries
- Assist the Assistant Provost for Teaching and Learning with the articulation agreements that facilitate student pathways from international programs to degree-granting programs
- Participating in international conferences, recruitment events, and partnership meetings
- Collaborate with admissions and international services to streamline student transition processes
Pedagogical Innovation and Student Success
- Apply evidence-based principles of second language acquisition and teaching methodologies to enhance program effectiveness
- Design and implement assessment strategies that accurately measure student progress and program outcomes
- Advocate for ESL/EFL student needs across the institution, ensuring appropriate support services and accommodations
- Foster an inclusive learning environment that celebrates cultural diversity and promotes cross-cultural understanding
Cross-Departmental Collaboration
- Work closely with Admissions to develop appropriate placement and entry requirements for ESL/EFL students
- Partner with Student Life and Student Services to ensure comprehensive support for international students' social and cultural integration
- Collaborate with tutoring services (i.e., The Center for Academic Success to provide targeted academic support for language learners)
- Coordinate with Academic Advising to ensure appropriate course sequencing and degree pathway planning
- Engage with other academic departments to facilitate smooth transitions from language programs to credit courses
Program Development and Administration
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee summer intensive programs and other extracurricular enrichment opportunities (may need to teach courses as needed)
- Engage with other departments to develop marketing and recruitment strategies to attract qualified students to ELI programs
- Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on program enrollment, completion rates, and student outcomes
Innovation and Future Planning
- Stay current with trends and best practices in ESL/EFL education, online learning technologies, and international education
- Contribute to institutional strategic planning related to global engagement and international programming
- Explore opportunities for program expansion, new delivery modalities, and innovative partnerships
- Lead initiatives that position the institution as a leader in international language instruction
Required Qualifications
Education
- Master's degree required in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Second Language Acquisition, Education, or a closely related field
- PhD or EdD preferred in ESL/TESOL education or related discipline
Experience
- Minimum 3-5 years of relevant ESL teaching experience required
- Experience with both online and face-to-face instruction preferred
- Demonstrated success in working with diverse student populations from multiple cultural backgrounds
- Administrative or leadership experience in educational settings preferred
Skills and Competencies
- Deep understanding of second language acquisition theories and pedagogical approaches
- Ability to anticipate, identify, and advocate effectively for the unique needs of ESL students
- Proven ability to work successfully across diverse cultures with sensitivity and cultural competence
- Strong administrative and organizational skills with experience coordinating complex programs
- Excellent project management abilities with attention to detail and deadline management
- Proficiency with educational technology platforms and online learning management systems
Professional Attributes
- Genuine desire to contribute to shaping the future of international programming at a regionally accredited, career-focused institution
- Commitment to student success and inclusive educational practices
- Evidence of excellent communication skills across multiple modalities (digital platforms, written correspondence, and oral presentations)
- Collaborative mindset with the ability to build consensus and work effectively in team environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with institutional accreditation processes and compliance requirements
- Background in international education or study abroad programming
- Multilingual capabilities
- Publications or presentations in the field of ESL/TESOL education
- Experience with data analysis and program assessment
Reporting Structure
This position reports directly to the Assistant Provost for Teaching and Learning. The Director will teach and supervise ELI faculty, staff, and graduate assistants while collaborating extensively with department chairs, student services directors, and other institutional leaders.
Additional Information:
This is a 12-month, full-time hybrid position (3 days on campus/2 remote) based in the United States. Standard working hours are aligned with the Eastern Time Zone.