Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

Admissions Counselor, Visual Arts

We are currently seeking an Admissions Counselor to join us at the PAFA. Reporting to the Registrar and Admissions Manager, the selected individual will play an integral role in the recruitment, selection, and enrollment for students interested in all educational programs at PAFA.

ABOUT PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is America's first school and museum of fine arts. Located in the center city of Philadelphia, PAFA is intimate in scale with a strong sense of community. PAFA offers several nondegree and certificate in studio art and art appreciation programs. PAFA's museum has an outstanding collection of American art, and the museum actively collects and exhibits contemporary art, including work in new media. Additionally, PAFA is home to the Brodsky Center, a print and papermaking center focused on the creation of innovative editions by contemporary artists.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Because we were the nation's first art museum and art school, we believe PAFA has a moral obligation to ensure that every member of our community can study and work in an environment where they feel a sense of belonging. We have the additional obligation of ensuring that our community reflects that rich tapestry of beauty and diversity that surrounds our world. We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the entire arts, cultural and educational sector, and to maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all. PAFA is committed to maintaining an inclusive learning environment, and a diverse community of students, faculty and staff.

PAFA is an equal opportunity employer. Women and diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to work in our pluralistic community.

THE POSITION: Admissions Counselor

The successful Admissions Counselor provides superior customer service throughout daily interactions and communications. The Admissions Counselor implements recruitment strategies and cultivates prospective students through a number of avenues including, traveling to assigned schools and territories, participating in community outreach activities, and providing tours of PAFA's facilities. The admission counselor must demonstrate an ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with team members, faculty, students, alumni, administrators and staff.

In consultation with the Chief Learning Officer, Registrar and Admissions Manager, Student Services Manager, the Admissions Counselor will:

  • Recruit students by visiting (in-person or virtual) high schools, attending college nights, visiting community colleges, etc.
  • Manage reoccurring strategic communications with teachers and counselors, including email, print, and other media.
  • Prepare and assist in the evaluation of applications in the admissions review meetings.
  • Welcome prospective students and participate in the planning and hosting of all admissions, new student, and other special events.
  • Conduct follow-up activities such as phone-calling campaigns and yield events
  • Manage small- and large-scale projects as assigned.
  • Manage PAFA Admissions emails, respond to inquiries and voicemail
  • Participate in educational opportunities and career knowledge; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Strong knowledge of the visual and fine arts.
  • At least one year of related experience, preferably in admissions or recruiting.
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and excellent written, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
  • Prior experience with an institutional database CRM preferred.
  • Must be flexible, with the ability to work independently as well as a commitment to teamwork and organization goals.
  • A flexible work schedule that will include days, evenings, and some weekends is required. Valid driver's license and the ability to travel.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts accepts digital applications only. A complete application should include the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

When submitting your application online, please save your documents as Microsoft Word (.doc, .docx) or PDF (.pdf) files. To help us process your applications as efficiently as possible, please save your files with the following filename format:

  • LastName_FirstName_Resume
  • LastName_FirstName_CoverLetter

*Due to the amount of potential applicants, we do not respond to voice calls or messages about the status of your application. Based on the criteria for the position, the most qualified candidates will be contacted directly. Thank you for your interest in PAFA.