05/05/2026
In case you haven't heard our director, Rev. Paul Newhall, is retiring the end of June. Because of this, we're looking for a new director here at the WIU Wesley Foundation. If you know of anyone that might be a good fit we're including our job description below. Feel free to pass it on.
Director of the Wesley Foundation
at Western Illinois University
1325 West University Drive
Macomb,IL 61455
About the Wesley Foundation
The Wesley Foundation at Western Illinois University is a campus ministry serving students and the wider community in Macomb, Illinois. Our mission is summarized in our motto: “Feeding the bodies, minds, and souls of the WIU community.”
We seek to welcome and engage people from all walks of life, all faith traditions—with an emphasis on Christianity—and individuals of all gender identities, creeds, and nationalities. Through worship, fellowship, service, and community engagement, the Wesley Foundation provides spiritual support and meaningful relationships for students during their college experience.
Position Summary
The Director of the Wesley Foundation provides spiritual leadership, administrative oversight, and program development for the ministry. The director mentors students, coordinates weekly worship and community activities, manages operations and finances, and works collaboratively with the Wesley Foundation Board, local churches, and the wider United Methodist connection. We are looking for someone who will cultivate an open, affirming, and accepting environment for students and the larger community.
Location: Macomb, Illinois
Position Type: Part-Time (20–30 hours/week)
Start Date: July 1, 2026 (flexible as long as the director begins before the start of the fall semester). Applications will be accepted until June 1, 2026 or until the position is filled.
Primary Responsibilities
Spiritual Leadership
• Plan, prepare, and lead weekly worship services.
• Provide pastoral care and mentorship for participating students.
• Help students in navigating the social, spiritual, and practical challenges of college life.
Program Development
• Develop and implement a variety of programs including:
o Bible studies
o Mission and outreach opportunities
o Fellowship and social activities
• Plan and oversee weekly dinners and other community events hosted at the Foundation.
Administration & Leadership
• Provide overall administration of the Wesley Foundation.
• Supervise interns, student employees, volunteers, and other staff as applicable.
• Work with the Board of Directors to guide the mission and direction of the ministry.
Financial Stewardship
• Manage the Foundation’s operating budget.
• Participate in fundraising efforts including:
o Speaking at churches and community groups
o Collaborating with the Illinois Great Rivers Conference Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry (IGRC BHECM)
o Applying for grants and other funding opportunities.
Facilities Oversight
• Oversee maintenance and upkeep of the Wesley Foundation building.
• Ensure regular cleaning and routine maintenance.
• Coordinate building needs with the Board and Treasurer.
Community Engagement
• Promote the Wesley Foundation throughout:
o Western Illinois University
o The Macomb community
o The Illinois Great Rivers Conference (IGRC) and beyond
• Build relationships with campus groups, churches, and community organizations.
Additional Opportunities
The Director may also:
• Assist with meal preparation and service during Foundation dinners.
• Help coordinate or assist with building projects.
• Collaborate with local churches and community organizations.
Qualifications
Candidates who may be a strong fit include:
• Student pastors
• Deacons
• Part-time licensed local pastors
• Individuals seeking a combined ministry position (not serving another congregation)
Experience in campus ministry, student mentoring, or church leadership is highly desirable.
Compensation
• Salary: $36,000 annually
• Additional benefits: May include housing assistance, insurance support, travel reimbursement, or other negotiated benefits.
• Vacation
• 2–3 weeks of vacation annually (negotiable).
Application / Contact Information
For more information or to express interest, please contact:
Rev. Paul Newhall
Phone: (309) 252-1411 – Foundation Office
Cell: (309) 287-0465
Email: [email protected]
The Wesley Foundation at WIU (Foundation) endeavors to provide a safe environment for its employees and students and requires candidates to submit to a background investigation upon offer of employment. The Wesley Foundation at WIU is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity employer with a strong commitment to diversity. In that spirit, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of people, including, but not limited to, minorities, veterans, women and individuals with disabilities.
The Foundation has a non-discrimination policy that includes discrimination based on an individual's membership in the following classes: s*x, race, color, s*xual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and any other classes protected by state or federal law.
The Foundation fosters respect, equity, and inclusion for all students and staff. is committed to anti-racism, anti-oppression, equity, social justice, and diversity. We value inclusion as a core value and as an essential element of the Foundation’s public service mission. The Foundation embraces individual uniqueness and a culture of inclusion that supports broad and specific diversity initiatives. The Foundation believes in the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society as integral to the success of all individuals.
At The Foundation, we will:
• Maintain a safe and secure environment for all members of our University communities.
• Ensure fair, equitable, and inclusive access to our facilities, programs, resources, and services.
• Create inclusive and equitable policies and practices for all of our staff, students, and volunteers.
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