A-R-C Opens Search for Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Initatives

Two-Year Internship Funded Through NCAA Division III Pathway to Excellence Grant

4/10/2026 11:55:00 AM

By: Ali Wilson, A-R-C Assistant Commissioner

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- The American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) seeks a forward-thinking individual for a two-year, entry-level appointment as Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Initiatives. Partially funded by the NCAA Division III Pathway to Excellence Grant, this role focuses on the 2025-2028 Strategic Plan. Reporting to the Commissioner, the successful candidate will help evolve the A-R-C brand, enhance the student-athlete experience, and support conference governance.

Nationally respected for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics, the A-R-C has a tradition dating back to its founding in 1922 as the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association and adopted its current name in 2018 to reflect its strong Iowa roots and growing regional footprint. The A-R-C is a collaborative community that champions the holistic development of student-athletes, uniting member institutions in a shared commitment to academic achievement, athletic distinction, and leadership. The conference sponsors 24 sports and is home to eight full-time member institutions: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Sports Management or related field preferred.

  • Strong understanding of the NCAA Division III philosophy, and the American Rivers Conference.

  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects with high attention to detail.

  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and digital/social media).

  • Ability to travel to member institutions and championship sites as required.

Term 
Two-year, full-time, 12-month non-exempt entry-level position, anticipated start date in June, 2026 and concluding May 31, 2028. Evening and weekend work with occasional travel is required.

Employment and Compensation
$30,000 salary, plus health benefits, parking, and stipends for technology and travel. A $3,000 per year professional development stipend is available for use on approved programming. This position is partially funded through the NCAA Division III Pathway to Excellence Grant and, therefore, the successful candidate is required to attend an orientation session August 2-4, 2026 at the NCAA headquarters in Indianapolis.

Application Process
Individuals who wish to apply for the A-R-C Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Initiatives internship should submit a resume, cover letter and professional references as a single PDF document via email to A-R-C Commissioner Marie Stroman (mstroman@rollrivers.com) by May 1, 2026 to receive first consideration for this position. Review of applications will begin immediately.