Full-time position responsible for collaborating with the Office of Campus Ministry in developing the liturgical, pastoral, spiritual, and faith community life on campus, in keeping with the mission of St. Thomas University and the Catholic Church in higher education.
This position provides leadership for a comprehensive Athletics Ministry, fostering the holistic formation of student-athletes in mind, body, and spirit, through spiritual accompaniment, sacramental life, leadership formation, and evangelization within the context of intercollegiate athletics.
The position also includes teaching responsibilities within the Amaturo School of Theology and Ministry, contributing to the academic mission of the University through courses such as Theology of Sport and Sports and Religion, integrating faith, culture, and athletics within the Catholic Intellectual Tradition.
In supporting the mission and advancement of Campus Ministry, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Collaborate with the Director of Campus Ministry in coordinating the Campus Ministry program including liturgical events, faith formation, retreats, and service/outreach experiences.
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Support the integration of Campus Ministry initiatives across all areas of university life, with particular outreach to student-athletes.
In advancing the mission with Worship, Prayer, and Spirituality, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Promote and facilitate participation of student-athletes in the liturgical life of the Church.
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Coordinate and lead prayer experiences for athletic teams, including pre-game and post-game prayers.
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Organize and lead retreats, pilgrimages, and spiritual formation opportunities tailored to student-athletes and teams.
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Collaborate with the University Chaplain to ensure sacramental access for student-athletes, especially during competitive seasons and travel.
In advancing the commitment to Evangelization through Athletics Ministry, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Design, implement, and direct a comprehensive Athletics Ministry Program that integrates faith and athletic life.
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Provide pastoral care, mentorship, and spiritual accompaniment to student-athletes, coaches, and athletics staff.
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Establish a consistent ministry of presence within Athletics through attendance at practices, games, and team events.
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Develop and lead Bible studies, faith-sharing groups, and discipleship initiatives specifically for student-athletes.
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Form student-athletes as missionary disciples who witness to the Gospel through competition, leadership, and daily life.
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Support the recruiting goals of the Office of Campus Ministry by recruitment initiatives, as well as identifying, inviting, and accompanying potential students.
In advancing the commitment to Formation, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Develop and implement a Catholic Identity Orientation Program for Student-Athletes, organized by sport, at the beginning of each academic year.
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Provide ongoing leadership and character formation rooted in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and virtue ethics.
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Support the integration of faith, athletics, and vocation discernment.
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Collaborate with Athletics and Student Affairs in promoting the holistic development of student-athletes.
In advancing Ethical Leadership, Social Justice, and Mission through Athletics Ministry, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Promote service opportunities and mission experiences for student-athletes locally and globally.
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Encourage ethical leadership, sportsmanship, and integrity rooted in Catholic values.
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Develop initiatives that connect athletics with service, outreach, and community engagement.
In building Strategic Partnerships and Recruitment through Athletics Ministry, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Develop and maintain relationships with Catholic high schools, athletic directors, and coaches.
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Organize formation programs, retreats, and events for Catholic high school athletes and coaches.
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Collaborate with Admissions and Athletics in recruiting prospective student-athletes aligned with the Campus Ministry mission of the University.
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Actively contribute to the recruitment strategy of the Office of Campus Ministry by promoting engagement pathways for prospective and current students, especially student-athletes, into the faith life of the University.
In contributing to the Academic Mission of the University, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Teach courses in the Amaturo School of Theology and Ministry, particularly in areas such as Theology of Sport, Sports and Religion, and related subjects.
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Integrate pastoral experience and Catholic theological reflection into the academic classroom.
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Contribute to curriculum development at the intersection of theology, culture, and athletics.
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Mentor and accompany students academically and professionally, especially those engaged in athletics or ministry leadership.
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Collaborate with faculty and administration in advancing the mission of Catholic higher education.
In the general administration and development of Campus Ministry, the Associate Director is expected to:
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Participate in required staff meetings and university committees.
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Collaborate closely with the Athletics Department, Student Affairs, Admissions, and the Amaturo School of Theology and Ministry.
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Participate in professional campus ministry and athletic ministry associations at local, regional, and national levels.
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Assist in program assessment, planning, and budgeting for Athletics Ministry initiatives.
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Perform other administrative and ministerial duties as assigned.
The incumbent works from University policies and general objectives, in collaboration with the Office of Mission and Ministry and the Director of Campus Ministry, and refers to the supervisor for clarification and interpretation of University policies and procedures. The position collaborates closely with Athletics leadership and faculty in the Amaturo School of Theology and Ministry.
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Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s Degree in Theology, Divinity, Pastoral Ministry or related field preferred.
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Demonstrated ability to teach at the university level, preferably in theology or related disciplines.
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Prior experience in campus ministry, youth ministry, or athletic ministry required.
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Strong understanding of and commitment to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
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Ability to integrate theology and athletics within the Catholic Intellectual Tradition.
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Strong pastoral, relational, and leadership skills, with a capacity for mentorship and accompaniment.
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Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
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Ability to collaborate across departments and build strategic partnerships.
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Intercultural competence and experience preferred.
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Computer literacy required (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, online platforms).
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Availability for evenings, weekends, and travel with teams as needed.
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Valid driver’s license required.
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Work is primarily performed in an office environment but includes frequent movement across campus and attendance at athletic events. May occasionally require lifting/pushing/pulling up to 20 pounds.
