OVERVIEW

The Meta Shaw Coleman Children’s Imagination Station is a dynamic 10,000 sq ft STEAM-focused educational center located in the heart of Valdosta, Lowndes County, Georgia, and it is one of five facilities and an Art Park situated on the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts Campus. The Imagination Station is dedicated to inspiring youth through hands-on learning and career exploration in Georgia industries. We are committed to being a destination for children, families, caregivers, educators, school groups, and other visitors from all corners of South Georgia and beyond. We are seeking a visionary and mission-driven director to lead the launch and ongoing success of this exciting new facility, opening in Spring 2026.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Operations

• Lead the launch of the Imagination Station.

• Develop positive and effective working relations with staff, volunteers, and community partners, and foster a positive team culture centered on collaboration, creativity, and learning.

• Oversee daily operations and ensure the facility is well-maintained, including exhibit functionality, compliance with safety standards, and an overall clean and welcoming environment.

• In partnership with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors, implement strategic priorities and continuously assess Imagination Station operations to ensure its success.

• Support the Board’s role as the governing body via the specific involvement of the Imagination Station Committee and its members.

Educational Programming

• Design and implement STEAM-based educational programs.

• Collaborate with educators and industry professionals to create engaging learning experiences that align with educational goals and standards.

• Ensure that programming is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of diverse audiences.

• Evaluate program effectiveness and make improvements, as needed.

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Cultivate relationships with various groups in the community.

• Encourage volunteerism and community participation in Imagination Station activities.

• Represent the Children’s Imagination Station at events, on and off Campus.

Financial & Administrative Management

•Assist the Executive Director in budgeting, reporting, and strategic planning.

•Engage and manage fundraising efforts, including grants, sponsorships, and donor opportunities.

•Monitor program expenses and revenue to ensure alignment with financial goals.

•Provide leadership in program development, staff organization, marketing, and financial planning.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Management, or related field.

• Experience in managing educational programs or facilities.

• Proven experience in program development, team supervision, and community collaboration.

• Strong leadership and communication skills.

• Ability to work tactfully, courteously, and effectively with diverse groups.

Skills & Attributes

• Understanding of informal experimental education and child-centered learning.

• Excellent organizational, interpersonal communication skills, and good judgment.

• Demonstrated positive and effective working relations with staff, volunteers, and the public and the ability to address the public to discuss problems, complaints, and issues tactfully, courteously, and effectively.

• Creative thinker with a passion for engaging youth and their families.

• Proficiency with accounting and business administrative software programs.

• A successful track record of exceptional financial management, organizational, and fundraising skills.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Health and wellness benefits

• Opportunities for professional development

• Supportive and mission-driven work environment

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Full-time.

• Salary range $55,000-$65,000 and will be commensurate with experience.

• Benefits include healthcare, dental, vision, 401K, and PTO.

• The Lowndes-Valdosta Arts Commission, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The mission of the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts and Campus is to promote and celebrate the arts as the regional center for cultural enrichment, education, and entertainment. To learn more about this growing nonprofit organization, visit www.turnercenter.org and www.childrensimaginationstation.org.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to info@turnercenter.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.