Center for Transformative Action

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Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator at the Dorothy Cotton Institute, Ithaca, NY

About the Dorothy Cotton Institute
The mission of the Dorothy Cotton Institute (DCI) is rooted in the philosophy and practices of nonviolence, reconciliation, restoration, and grassroots leadership development. Our work builds on the principles Ms. Cotton championed throughout her life. We focus on creating models for human rights education, practice, and leadership that honor the legacy of Ms. Dorothy Cotton’s lifework.

Position Overview
We are seeking a part-time permanent employee to support the work of the Dorothy Cotton Institute. As Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in the organization, supporting the Executive Director with administrative tasks. You may also assist in program development and presentation. This position contributes directly to the successful implementation of DCI’s mission, vision, and values and offers room for growth within DCI. The successful candidate will be self-directed, responsible, and excited about our mission.

Key Responsibilities

General Administrative Support

• Provide general administrative assistance, including scheduling and note-taking at both in-person and virtual meetings.
• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries and requests from internal and external stakeholders.

• Assist with the development and distribution of written materials, such as newsletters, press releases, and promotional materials.
• Manage DCI social media accounts.
• Staff the DCI office two days each week, at least 4 or more total office hours/week.
• Represent and support DCI at community events.

• Assist in scheduling, advertising, recruiting, and getting feedback for DCI events.
• Event coordination— including recording and summarizing.
• Attend and participate in DCI events.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records.
• Generate reports, as needed.
• Assist with organizing and maintaining digital and physical files.

• Assist leadership with invoices, expense reports, and other financial documents.
• Assist with planning annual budget.

• High school diploma or equivalent. More advanced degree(s) or relevant certifications or courses are welcome but not required.
• Experience in a similar administrative role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using office productivity software (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Adobe, Canva, Mailchimp).
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to be flexible and responsive to changing organizational needs.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Genuine interest in gaining skills in program development and presentation.
• Commitment to the values and mission of the Dorothy Cotton Institute, including nonviolence, reconciliation, restoration, roots leadership development, and civic engagement.
• Knowledge or interest in human rights, social justice, and community organizing is preferred.

Hours and Pay

• Part-time, 20 hours per week with some flexibility in scheduling.
• Pay is $28 per hour

Benefits
Vacation and sick time; eligible to participate in medical and dental insurance plans

Application Process
To apply for this position, please submit the following documents to dorothycottoninstitute@gmail.com

• Your resume, including relevant work experience and education.
• A cover letter highlighting your qualifications and explaining your interest in the position.
• Three professional references.

The Dorothy Cotton Institute values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace. We actively encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and ability, to apply for this position. We believe that a diverse team enriches our work and fosters a more vibrant and effective organization.

Application Deadline: October 20, 2026

The Dorothy Cotton Institute (DCI) is a project of the Center for Transformative Action (CTA). CTA is, therefore, the employer for this position.
CTA is an equal opportunity employer. Employees are hired based on their merit, ability, experience, and training without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, age, mental or physical disability, size, religious affiliation, genetic make-up, military/veteran status, domestic violence victim/survivor status, sexual and other reproductive health decisions, or past participation in the discrimination complaint process. We are committed to being an inclusive organization and encourage people from diverse communities to apply.

In addition to its support and governance of the entire organization, our board plays an active role in selecting new projects and engages with the exciting work of fostering Transformative Action in our local communities, at Cornell, and statewide. For more information, contact Glen Dowell, CTA board president, gwd39@cornell.edu.