University Storyteller/Writer

Working Title

University Storyteller/Writer

Position Number

FA411

FLSA

Exempt

Appointment Type

Full Time

Sensitive Position

No

Sensitive Position Statement

A sensitive position requires a fingerprint-based criminal history check. This is NOT a sensitive position.

Campus Security Authority

No

Campus Security Authority Statement

A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities.” A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.  This is NOT a Campus Security Authority.

Designated Personnel

Yes

Designated Personnel Statement

A “designated position” indicates this position could potentially be required to work (depending on the event) during an emergency closing. This is a “designated position.” 

Statement of Economic Interest

No

Statement of Economic Interest Statement

This position does NOT require a Statement of Personal Economic Interest.

Restricted Position

No

Restricted Position Statement

A restricted position would be subject to availability of funding. This NOT a restricted position.

Chief Objective of Position

The storyteller/writer will work in the Office of Communications and Public Relations (OCPR) to identify, research and produce a rich and diverse collection of stories about the university, its people and its activities.

Work Tasks

• Engage readers in print, web and social media platforms with the versatility to develop content in both narrative and non-narrative forms
• Research and write lengthy feature stories and shorter stories. The storyteller/writer is responsible for both originating story ideas and seeing them through to completion AND writing assigned stories
• Conduct thorough, accurate research and reporting on a wide range of subjects
• Collaborate with a creative team on story selection, planning and visual elements to enhance delivery and engagement. Assist with creation and deployment of website and social media content
• Manage production of own stories and adhere to deadlines
• Adhere to office style standards
• Supervise content specialist, freelance and/or part-time writers and student interns
• Attend meetings, conferences, performances, games and other campus events to develop and report stories
• Represent OCPR at university and community events
• Advise OCPR management on media relations and communications issues
• Assume a leadership role in the creation of Voyages magazine
• Edit and proofread written content developed by campus departments
• Stay current on trends in higher education content development
• Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and relations within the department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests and employees
• Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect.
• Fully support the “Students First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service
• This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty
• Responsible to review and communicate safety issues to assure a safe and healthy workplace and a reduction in work related absence
• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) required

• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the fundamentals of writing, grammar, syntax, style and punctuation
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, lively, engaging and compelling copy in a variety of styles appropriate for target audiences and/or the broader public while ensuring adherence to the university’s brand, mission, vision and values
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity and warmth, a strong work ethic and a good sense of humor
• Outstanding interpersonal communications skills and an ability to work with a wide variety of people, as part of a team, and independently
• Individual will need to work independently on content and collaboratively through the editing process

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) preferred

Knowledge of website content management, social media and email communications

Required Education

Master’s degree in a related field; or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and work experiences that equates to an advanced degree is required.

Preferred Education

Experience Required

Professional experience writing for print and/or online publications.

Experience Preferred

• Professional experience writing for print and/or online publications in higher education or journalism
• Crisis communications experience
• Experience preparing news releases, pitches and working with professional journalists

CNU Information

Selected by The Princeton Review for The 386 Best Colleges: 2021 Edition, and highly ranked for its quality of life and innovative leadership, Christopher Newport University is a public school offering a private school experience — great teaching, small classes, and a safe, vibrant campus. A “student-first, teaching-first” community, Christopher Newport is dedicated to the ideals of scholarship, leadership and service. The University is located between Williamsburg and the Virginia beaches in Newport News, and enrolls 5,100 students. Academic programs encompass more than 90 areas of study, from biology to business administration and political science to the performing arts. The University has a new and technologically advanced campus, has generated over 7,300 applications for a freshmen class of 1,155 and has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Colleges guide as fourth among public regional universities in the South and seventh among all regional universities in the South. In addition, Christopher Newport is ranked third among all public schools for having “the highest proportion of classes with fewer than 20 students.” Christopher Newport is committed to ensuring that all people are welcomed, honored and fully engaged in the life of our academic community. We seek exceptional and diverse candidates and encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in their profession. For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit ”https://www.cnu.edu">http://www.cnu.edu.

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number

AP163P

Number of Vacancies

Posting Date

07/29/2021

Application Deadline

08/22/2021

Application Instructions

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter; current resume; and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.  Candidates should also submit a portfolio of a variety of writing samples as part of application. At least one must have been produced with one day or less of lead time to deadline.

Review of applications will begin August 22, 2021. 
Applications received after August 22, 2021, will be accepted but considered only if needed. 

Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.

Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.

Quick Link for Internal Postings

https://jobs.cnu.edu/postings/11398

EEO Statement

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.
Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement: