Community Liaison, Project Gabriel

The VCU Division of Inclusive Excellence (IE) is seeking a highly motivated Community Liaison to support the Project Director in the implementation of Project Gabriel, a university initiative dedicated to researching, acknowledging, and addressing VCU's historical ties to slavery. This position will play a key role in supporting research teams, engaging with community stakeholders, supporting reconciliation strategies, and coordinating public outreach efforts, with a focus on the legacy of Gabriel Prosser, a prominent enslaved Richmond man who led a rebellion against slavery.The Community Liaison acts as the primary point of contact between VCU's Project Gabriel and the community. This role is focused on fostering positive relationships, addressing concerns, and promoting effective communication between various stakeholders. The Community Liaison works to understand community needs, relay information between the community and VCU, and support initiatives that benefit both the VCU's Project Gabriel and its surrounding community.Key Responsibilities:

• Relationship Building: Assist with developing and maintaining positive relationships with community leaders, residents, local organizations, and stakeholders.
• Communication: Serve as communication conduit between the community and the organization, ensuring transparency and clarity in all exchanges.
• Problem Solving: Support the Project Director in addressing and resolving community concerns and complaints.
• Community Engagement: Assist with planning and organizing community events, meetings, and outreach activities to engage the public and gather feedback.
• Advocacy: In close coordination with the Project Director, help advocate for the needs and interests of the community within the organization, ensuring their concerns are head and addressed.
• Public Relations: Represent the organization at community events and in public forums to help build a positive image and enhance the organization's presence. Assist with publicizing Project Gabriel events and initiatives.
• Report Creation: Assist with the preparation of reports on community interactions, feedback, and engagement activities for internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Collaboration: Work with other departments and external partners to implement community programs and initiatives effectively.Required Qualifications:
• High School Diploma/GED and up to 3 years relevant professional experience or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
• Some experience in community engagement or programming. This can be at a formal or informal (e.g. volunteering) level.
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.
• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build trust and maintain relationships with diverse groups.
• Knowledge of the local community and its needs.
• Event planning and public speaking capabilities.
• Attributes:
• Empathetic and understanding of community concerns.
• Professional and approachable demeanor.
• Proactive and solution-oriented.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  
  

Work Environment:

• This position involves local travel and occasional travel to community events and meetings outside of Richmond.
• Flexible working hours may be required, especially for evening or weekend events.Work Schedule:
• Hybrid work schedule available.
• 10 - 15 hours a week commitment.This is a restricted position with no set end date; continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance. “Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, political affiliation, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or disability.”
  
  

Salary Range: $20 - $23 Position Details:Department: Inclusive Excellence

Employment Type: H1 - Hourly

Restricted Status: Yes

FTE: .50

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt Contact Information:Contact Name: Contact Email: Contact Phone: