Shortridge Coastal Center Community Engagement Assistant (S99757)

Summary

The Shortridge Coastal Center is seeking a passionate and motivated individual to join our team as a Community Engagement Fellow. In this role, you will play a central part in fostering connections between the Center, the Bates College community, and the diverse coastal ecosystems of the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area. The Fellow will organize and lead a variety of community-focused events, outreach efforts, and will have the opportunity to assist in environmental education programs with the surrounding Phippsburg community, with a particular emphasis on outdoor exploration. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a beautiful coastal setting while engaging diverse student audiences in meaningful and hands-on ways.

Basics

  • Department: Bates Morse Mountain
  • Supervisor: Rebecca Clark Uchenna
  • Office Location: Hedge Hall
  • Email: rclark6@bates.edu
  • Hours: 5
  • Workers: 1

Responsibilities

Event Planning & Community Engagement
– Organize Seasonal Festivals: Plan and execute vibrant community festivals throughout the year, including fall, winter, and spring events, to engage students, faculty, and the local community in the activities at Shortridge. These festivals will feature outdoor activities, arts and crafts, food, and live entertainment (such as guest speakers or musicians), all aimed at building a stronger community presence at the center.
– Collaboration with Local Artists & Environmental Researchers: Contribute to outreach efforts to connect environmental researchers, local artists, and students to the center. Coordinate opportunities for them to showcase their work and research through events, workshops, and exhibits.
– Social Media Strategy & Outreach: Develop and execute a social media strategy to boost the center’s visibility and encourage participation in events and programs. Regularly update platforms with upcoming events, research highlights, and community activities.
– Visibility and Awareness Campaigns: Organize and promote visibility campaigns, including poster distribution and digital outreach, to raise awareness about Shortridge Coastal Center and its mission. Work closely with the Environmental Science (ES), Biology (BIO), and Environmental and Coastal Studies (EACS) departments to showcase senior theses and research relevant to Morse Mountain.
Creative & Educational Design
– Interior Design & Student Art: Help create a welcoming atmosphere by decorating interior spaces that reflect the center’s mission and assist with art installations. Collaborate with students to display their artwork, including photography and other mediums, through rotating exhibits that highlight local talent and environmental themes.

Requirements

Current Junior or Senior at Bates College, preferably not studying abroad during the year-long term of the fellowship
Preference for Environmental Studies Interest: Ideal candidates should have an interest in environmental science, conservation, community-science, environmental education, or related fields
Previous Community Outreach/Engagement Experience: Experience with community engagement or organizing events is highly preferred
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple events and projects simultaneously
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively engage diverse audiences
Experience with social media platforms and digital marketing strategies
Possess an interest in visual arts, photography, or design
Ability to collaborate with various groups, including local artists, researchers, and academic departments
Ability to work independently

Reporting

Reports to: Rebecca Clark Uchenna, Director of Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area and Shortridge Coastal Center

Working Conditions

Travel to/from Shortridge Coastal Center, located in Phippsburg, ME, will be required during seasonal events hosted at Shortridge.