Part-Time Communications Associate

Overview

OLLI Mason is seeking a creative, organized, and detail‑oriented Communications Associate to lead marketing, communication, and outreach initiatives that strengthen awareness of OLLI Mason and support member engagement.

Schedule: 20 hours per week

Compensation: $25/hour; no benefits.

The Communications Associate is responsible for planning, creating, and implementing communication and marketing strategies that promote OLLI Mason programs, events, and membership. The role coordinates digital and print marketing, manages content across multiple platforms, and supports outreach initiatives. This position works under the general supervision of the Executive Director and collaborates closely with OLLI staff, designers, and volunteers.

• Oversee OLLI Mason’s Communications and Marketing Plans.
• Manage communications and marketing calendars.
• Serve as liaison to the Outreach Committee.
• Coordinate design and placement of advertisements in local newspapers and publications.
• Oversee George Mason University marquee announcements.
• Develop quarterly flyers promoting registration and special programs.
• Manage design, production and distribution of outreach materials such as brochures, trifolds, cards, appeal letters, and other mailings.
• Conduct audience research, analyze market trends, track campaign performance, and gather data to support marketing strategies.
• Capture and edit photos and videos, collaborate with the OLLI photography club and other photographers to maintain an image library.
• Update templates and forms in the online member portal and Word Press site.
• Promote travel programs through communication channels.
• Edit and distribute the annual member survey; prepare results and produce special surveys when needed.
• Update OLLI letterhead and PowerPoint templates.

• Create and distribute weekly Communicators via Mailchimp and PowerPoint during academic terms.
• Produce and send E‑blasts between and during terms.
• Draft and submit articles to E‑News; support OLLI Mason members in writing contributions.

• Post events, courses, and organizational updates to Social Media.
• Create and schedule social media campaigns that promote OLLI Mason programs and membership.

• Assist with planning and implementation of the annual Teacher Appreciation & Scholarship Event and the OLLI Ideas Festival open house.
• Represent OLLI Mason at outreach events and community activities.

• Edit term catalog; prepare registration forms; collaborate with designer on cover art; support catalog verification processes.
• Work with editors to solicit content from writers and photographers.
• Format the annual edition of OLLI Ink and maintain contributor mailing lists.
• Edit and format Poets of OLLI publications.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field—or equivalent experience.
• Experience with digital communication tools (e.g., Mailchimp, Word Press, social media platforms).
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Basic photography and video editing skills.

Preferred:

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit communications.
• Familiarity with graphic design principles and working with designers.
• Knowledge of survey tools and data reporting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Strong organizational and project‑management abilities
• Creativity and attention to detail
• Ability to collaborate with volunteers, committees, and diverse stakeholders
• Comfort working in both independent and team‑based environments

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three work samples (writing samples, social media posts, newsletters) to OLLI. Position open until filled. Only qualified candidates will be contacted. No calls please.

OLLI Mason is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with George Mason University and the national Osher Lifelong Learning network that provides classes, lectures, trips, clubs, social and other activities for over 1000 active learners age 50+. Over 500 college-level courses and activities covering a broad range of subjects are offered each year. Programs are presented in-person at the Fairfax campus, at satellite sites throughout Fairfax County, and online.