Job Description
TRIO is a federally funded program providing support services to students who are first-generation, low income, and/or students with a disability. The Academic Advisor and Student Community Coordinator is responsible for providing academic advising, career advising, financial advising and personal development to TRIO-eligible students, coordinates the workshops offered by Student Support Services (SSS), is the liaison between SSS and WSU Access Services, and has primary responsibility for assessment of SSS programming and for identifying opportunities for continual improvement. Additionally, this position serves as the transition coordinator for all SSS students and may teach Improving Reading and Study Skills (EDUC 115) and/or Orientation (OR 100) for SSS participants.
Responsibilities:
1. Student Advising. Provide academic, financial aid and career advising and personal support for TRIO-eligible students. Assess student eligibility for the TRIO Student Support Services program. Conduct a needs assessment and develop individual support plans for qualified students. Collect and analyze data for use in writing the grant proposal and annual performance reports and for use in evaluating program outcomes and future program needs.
2. Workshop Coordination. Develop and coordinate educational workshops for TRIO-eligible students on topics such as academic advising, academic support, and financial literacy, as specified in the SSS grant. Organize workshops on optional topics such as career development, mentoring, and services targeted to subgroups. Collaborate on the development of programming for TRIO Learning Communities for students in specific majors.
3. Liaison to Campus Student Services. Collaborate regularly with staff in Access Services and TRIO Ability Student Services program to facilitate referrals and to provide mutual support of students with documented disabilities. Develop, implement, and promote support groups for targeted groups of students with disabilities (i.e., students with ADHD or depression).
4. Program Evaluation and Assessment. Develop, implement, and oversee a comprehensive system of SSS program evaluation and assessment. Conduct periodic reviews and departmental self-study of the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) Self-Assessment for TRIO and Other Educational Opportunity Programs to enhance future program development and to ensure that the SSS program is consistent with WSU’s mission, vision, and goals. Coordinate annual evaluation of program by participating students and other stakeholders.
5. Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of WSU. Including but not limited to participating on committees and work groups, managing an assigned operating budget, and participating in professional development opportunities.
Minimum Qualifications
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Master’s Degree
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Two (2) years of experience in Higher Education
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Employment is contingent a Criminal History Records Check, as required under Minnesota Statutes §§ 299C.60-299C.64
Preferred Qualification
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Experience in programming that promotes student success in higher education
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Experience working with diverse populations
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Experience in higher education environment
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Knowledge of academic support strategies and methods
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Knowledge of retention theory and practice
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Excellent oral and written communication skills
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Excellent public relations and interpersonal skills
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Ability to work with students to establish trust and influence actions
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Ability to handle sensitive material in a confidential and professional manner
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Strong organizational skills
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Computer skills
