Vanderbilt University→
Program Coordinator at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN
Job Description
Position Summary:
The Patterson Institute for Early Adolescent Literacy seeks a focused, collaborative, and systems- oriented Program Coordinator to support the launch and implementation of a research-practice partnership focused on literacy development in grades 4–8. The Program Coordinator will coordinate key Institute initiatives, including a school-based Tutoring and Instructional Lab, a Literacy Fellows program, and partnerships with local schools and communities.
In this role, the Program Coordinator will organize, implement, and assess programmatic efforts that connect research, instruction, and community engagement. The Program Coordinator will work closely with Institute leadership, school partners, and graduate fellows to ensure that all initiatives are responsive to school contexts and aligned with the Institute’s mission to improve literacy outcomes for early adolescents.
About the Work Unit:
The Patterson Institute for Early Adolescent Literacy is dedicated to improving literacy outcomes for students in grades 4–8 through integrated research, instruction, and community partnership. The Institute partners with local schools and organizations to design and implement literacy supports grounded in evidence and responsive to real classroom contexts.
Through initiatives such as the Tutoring and Instructional Lab, Literacy Fellows program, and professional learning partnerships, the Institute seeks to build sustainable models of literacy instruction while preparing future literacy leaders. The work is grounded in collaboration with schools, families, and communities across Middle Tennessee and is committed to advancing equitable literacy practices.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Coordinates the implementation of Institute initiatives, including the Tutoring and Instructional Lab.
Manages day-to-day program operations, including scheduling, logistics, and communication with school partners.
Serves as a primary liaison between the Institute and partner schools, supporting alignment around student participation, scheduling, and program goals.
Supports the placement, onboarding, and ongoing coordination of Literacy Fellows in partner school settings.
Collaborates with Institute leadership and research staff to support data collection processes, including student assessment and progress monitoring.
Assists in the development and maintenance of systems for program documentation, tracking, and reporting.
Supports the design and coordination of future initiatives, including professional development offerings and family engagement programming.
Oversees program logistics such as space coordination, materials management, and resource allocation.
Assists with hiring and onboarding processes for fellows, tutors, and part-time staff.
Maintains strong relationships with school and community partners and supports the development of new partnerships.
Contributes to internal and external communications, including program summaries, reports, and materials for stakeholders.
Remains informed about current research and practices in literacy education and integrates this knowledge into program coordination.
Job responsibilities listed herein are intended to be a thorough representation of the duties, responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications for this role at the time of hire but should not be considered all-encompassing, as responsibilities may evolve based on organizational needs.
Supervisory Relationships:
This position reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director of the Patterson Institute for Early Adolescent Literacy.
Education and Certifications
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is required.
A master’s degree in education, literacy, educational leadership, or a related field is preferred.
Experience and Skills:
Experience working in K–12 educational settings is required.
Demonstrated understanding of school-based contexts and the ability to work effectively with educators and school leaders is required.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and timelines, is required.
Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment is required.
Strong communication skills, including the ability to work across students, educators, and community partners, is required.
Experience working with research-practice partnerships, data collection, or assessment systems is preferred.
Experience supporting or mentoring early-career educators or graduate students is preferred.
Ability to use technology and data systems to support program coordination and communication is preferred.
Company
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.