Executive Director

Discovering Justice, a dynamic Boston-based nonprofit dedicated to civic education, is seeking a mission-driven and experienced leader to serve as its next Executive Director. For over 20 years, the organization has engaged tens of thousands of K-12 students across Massachusetts, particularly in underserved communities, to deepen their understanding of the justice system, explore its core principles, and inspire them to become active citizens committed to advancing a more equitable democracy. Founded in 1998 with support from the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, and the Boston Bar Foundation, Discovering Justice became an independent nonprofit in 2001, and today, the organization calls the John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse its home.

Discovering Justice offers a comprehensive array of programs designed to foster a deeper understanding of the courts and civics education in schools statewide. Signature initiatives include the Mock Trial and Mock Appeal programs, Courthouse Programs, and the Massachusetts K-5 civics curriculum, Children Discovering Justice. With a 15-member board, a staff of seven, and more than 600 volunteers annually, the Executive Director will oversee a $2.1 million budget and play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s next phase of impact. 

This leader will conduct an organizational strategic assessment to optimize the institution’s long-term impact, ensuring continued sustainability and growth. In addition, the Executive Director will serve as the primary ambassador for Discovering Justice, building and maintaining strong relationships with key external stakeholders while cultivating a high-performing, diverse team and organizational culture. A core responsibility will be thoughtfully embedding DEI principles into the organization’s policies, practices, and programming, and the Executive Director will continue to enhance board engagement and governance to support institutional success.

The ideal candidate will be a passionate leader with a strong background in civic education, the legal field, or youth development, and with a proven ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders. They will bring a track record of success with organizational leadership, financial management, revenue generation and fundraising, and people and partnership building skills. 

The organization fosters a balanced work environment, blending the benefits of in-person interactions with remote work flexibility that supports a healthy work-life balance. The incoming Executive Director should expect to spend a significant amount of time outside the office interacting with donors and partners in the community and region.

The compensation for this role is expected to be $195,000.

Discovering Justice values a diverse workforce and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment that strives to embed equity and inclusion into every aspect of the organization.

• Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Even if you do not meet every qualification, Discovering Justice would love to hear from you and encourage you to apply.
• Discovering Justice strongly encourages applications from members of marginalized communities, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color; women; and the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities.
• Discovering Justice prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. The organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be submitted below. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Rebecca Swartz is leading this search with Angelo Alexander.