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The Vice President of Public Policy (VPPP) serves as a leading advocate for the students served by the Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) — ensuring that the needs and experiences of low-income, first-generation students are reflected in all federal policy and funding decisions. The VPPP will work to elevate student voices in conversations around program authorization and appropriations, while collaborating closely with colleagues across the organization to advance shared priorities.

This role comes at a pivotal moment for Federal TRIO Programs, which are facing significant policy and funding challenges that threaten their core mission. We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to guide our government relations efforts, advocate for the preservation and strengthening of TRIO, and ensure continued access to higher education for low-income and first-generation students nationwide.

Leadership

• In collaboration with the senior leadership of COE, develop, design, communicate, and implement the government relations agenda of the Council and represent Council interests on Capitol Hill and before the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and other relevant entities.
• Represent COE and TRIO programs and students at congressional meetings, briefings, and within education coalitions across Washington, DC.
• Supervise the Public Policy Associate and seasonal interns in the assistance of these and other duties.

Strategic Planning

• Work closely with the president and other executive and senior leaders to implement strategies to ensure achievement of the organization's short- and long-term objectives.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute COE’s annual legislative events, including the Policy Seminar, congressional visits during the National Student Leadership Congress, Capitol Hill briefings, etc.

Community Engagement

• Keep the TRIO community engaged in the government relations activities throughout the country that affect TRIO programs and personnel through weekly updates and regular field outreach.
• Coordinate the response of the TRIO community to congressional and administration activities that affect TRIO programs.
• Craft correspondence, reports, and other materials for internal and external audiences, including presentations at state and regional meetings of TRIO personnel, students, and alumni.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Advanced degree in law, public policy, public administration, or related field.
• At least five years of professional experience in government relations, including service in a congressional office, non-profit, or membership organization.
• Intimate understanding of higher education policy, including both the appropriations and authorization processes.
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• High energy, maturity, and leadership with the ability to exercise strong judgment and discretion in advocacy matters at both the strategic and tactical levels.
• Creative thinking, intellectual agility, and the ability to generate innovative approaches in a dynamic environment.
• Sincere commitment to working collaboratively with all constituent groups, including staff, board members, volunteers, donors, program participants, and other supporters.
• A strong track record as a relationship builder with the flexibility and finesse to "manage by influence."

Preferred Qualifications  

• Experience as a Legislative Director, Legislative Counsel, Chief of Staff or Professional Staff Member to a congressional committee.
• Experience directing a multi-faceted policy team.

About Council for Opportunity in Education

The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) is a nonprofit organization, established in 1981, dedicated to furthering the expansion of college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., the Pacific Islands, and Puerto Rico. Its membership includes more than 1,000 colleges and agencies. Through its numerous membership services, the Council works in conjunction with colleges, universities, and agencies to help low-income students enter college and graduate. Nearly 817,000 students each year receive college access and retention services through our member colleges and agencies.

Connections working at Council for Opportunity in Education