About the Telluride Education Foundation

The Telluride Education Foundation (TEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the educational experience of students in the Telluride R-1 School District. Through strategic fundraising, community engagement, and collaborative programming, TEF bridges the gap between public funding and the exceptional educational opportunities our mountain community deserves.

Position Overview

The Executive Director is the chief operating and external-facing leader of TEF. In this part-time capacity, the Executive Director will steward the Foundation’s mission by cultivating donor relationships, leading fundraising initiatives, and building a vibrant school community that connects families, educators, local businesses, and supporters. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on education in one of Colorado’s most distinctive communities.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Development

• Develop and execute a comprehensive annual fundraising strategy, including individual giving, grants, corporate sponsorships, and special events. Creates and meets fundraising goals
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, and community partners
• Lead TEF’s signature fundraising events, ensuring that they build community and maximize revenue
• Write and manage grant applications and reporting in partnership with board members
• Maintain donor database and ensure timely acknowledgment and reporting to all contributors

Community Building & Engagement

• Serve as the public face and spokesperson for TEF, representing the Foundation at school, district, and community events
• Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging by engaging diverse families, staff, and community stakeholders
• Strengthen partnerships with the Telluride R-1 School District, local businesses, arts organizations, and outdoor recreation community
• Create and promote programming that celebrates and elevates the unique educational environment of Telluride
• Facilitate volunteer recruitment and recognition to deepen community investment in TEF’s mission

Organizational Leadership & Governance

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to execute strategic priorities and report on progress against goals
• Oversee day-to-day operations, financial stewardship, and compliance in alignment with TEF’s nonprofit status. Manages Finance Manager and Bookkeeper.
• Develop and manage an annual budget in partnership with the board treasurer
• Communicate regularly with the board through written reports and attendance at board meetings

Communications & Marketing

• Develop compelling and consistent communications that tell TEF’s story across newsletters, social media, and the website
• Build awareness of TEF’s impact through consistent, authentic storytelling and community outreach

Qualifications

Required

• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or a closely related field
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with donors, community members, educators, and volunteers
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking
• Self-directed and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Passion for education and a genuine connection to the Telluride community

Preferred

• Experience working with or leading a nonprofit board
• Familiarity with the Telluride R-1 School District and its programs
• Background in event planning, grant writing, or marketing
• Proficiency with donor management software and standard office tools

Compensation & Schedule

This is a part-time position (estimated 20 hours per week), with flexibility in scheduling, with the support of a working board. Compensation is commensurate with experience (in the $40,000-$50,000 range). Some evenings and weekends will be required for events and community engagements. TEF is committed to supporting a healthy work-life balance in our mountain community.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter describing their connection to education and approach to community fundraising. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Please apply by September 18th.

Send application materials to:  jobs@tellurideeducation.org

The Telluride Education Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.