Director of John Jay Debate Association

Role Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic leader to establish and manage this new debate association. The ideal candidate will develop engaging debate programs, recruit participants, foster partnerships, and promote civic skills among students, creating a vibrant platform for critical thinking, public speaking, and civil discourse. The successful applicant will inspire students, and present ideas confidently. The Director will possess the ability to analyze debate arguments and teach members how to eloquently persuade.

Organization Overview:

In honor of John Jay, the first Supreme Court Justice and a champion of civic virtue, the JJDA will be dedicated to empowering the youth in our community with the skills necessary for effective and respectful civil discourse. We aim to foster critical thinking, enhance public speaking skills, and promote understanding of diverse perspectives by providing a structured platform for students to engage in debate. Our goal is to cultivate a generation of informed and engaged young people who will go on to be contributing citizens in their communities and beyond. We aim to create a vibrant culture of learning and dialogue that honors John Jay’s legacy.

Qualifications:

A resident of the community who possesses a strong background in education, leadership, or community organizing, with a proven history of fostering youth engagement and developing programs. Experience in debate, public speaking, or related fields is preferred.

Work Environment:

Local TBD within the Bedford Community and will require hands on, in-person meetings to develop relationships with students, community leaders, educators, and other key professionals essential to the organization’s success. The program will begin with a regional focus but may expand nationally in the future.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership: Lead the formation and management of the association

Program Development: Create and implement debate programs, workshops, and competitions

Recruitment: Attract and retain members including students and community leaders

Partnerships: Build relationships with schools, community organizations, and sponsors

Fund Raising: Identify funding opportunities and manage the association’s budget

Promotion: Develop marketing strategies and promote the association and its events

Training and Mentoring: Provide guidance and resources for members and coaches

Employment Details:

This is a part-time position. A Director will report to the Board of the Friends of John Jay Homestead (see below).

Mission:

The JJDA is a program of the Friends of the John Jay Homestead, a non-profit educational corporation founded in 1977, with a mission to increase public appreciation and awareness of the history of our nation, our region and John Jay’s many contributions as a Founder of our country; to encourage use of the John Jay Homestead State Historic Site for both educational and recreational purposes; and to supplement the work of New York State by providing funding and volunteer assistance for the preservation, restoration and interpretation of the site which dates from 1787.