"Assistant Director/Associate Director of TRIO/REACH"

Assistant Director/Associate Director of TRIO/REACH

Susquehanna University

Job Type: Staff - Full-Time Benefits Eligible

FLSA: Determined by Position

Hours per week: 40

Number of months: 12

Location: Selinsgrove, PA

Closing Date: 3/13/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

About Susquehanna

Susquehanna University is the future-ready institution for today, invested in cultivating intellectual grounding, active learning and global citizenship for all students. Renowned as one of the finest U.S. national liberal arts colleges, Susquehanna inspires and challenges 2,200 enterprising, bright-minded students studying the arts, business, humanities and sciences. Our students seize opportunities through exceptional worldwide internships, expert-guided research and an acclaimed study-abroad program, leading to a transformative education that empowers each graduate to realize their unique potential and lead a successful and meaningful life.

The Susquehanna River Valley with its fresh air and overall pleasant year-round climate, provides four distinct seasons amidst a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage, occasional winter snowfalls, flower-filled springs and warm summer evenings illuminated by fireflies. Nearby outdoor recreational areas for hiking, kayaking, fishing and skiing - and the bustling cultural and commerce hubs of New York City, Washington D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia within a three-hour drive - present abundant opportunities for learning and discovery.

Job Summary

The Assistant or Associate Director of TRIO/REACH is responsible for the effective implementation and continuous improvement of programming for first-generation, income-eligible, and other underrepresented student populations. This position directly supervises key personnel, oversees day-to-day operations, and serves as a senior student-facing leader to ensure holistic student support. The Assistant or Associate Director collaborates across departments to promote student success and persistence through academic support, mentoring, and resource coordination. It reports to the Senior Director of Student Support and Development Services. This position will require you to work some evenings per week and occasional weekends and overnight supervision for field trips. This position is grant-funded and defined as an exempt position under FLSA regulations.

Specific Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of TRIO and REACH programming, including tutoring, advising, summer bridge, and cohort-based activities.
• Lead student recruitment, selection, and onboarding for both TRIO and REACH.
• Supervise student development coaches, student workers, and (if applicable) a program coordinator; conduct weekly team meetings and performance check-ins.
• Track student participation, academic progress, and service delivery; manage internal data systems and prepare reports for compliance and improvement.
• Serve as a senior student-facing leader; provide high-touch mentoring, troubleshoot student concerns, and work with high-need cases.
• Plan and evaluate student engagement programs such as workshops, events, and culturally relevant programming.
• Oversee the telementoring alumni program; use assessment data to improve program quality and student outcomes.
• Manage day-to-day purchasing in alignment with budget guidelines; collaborate with Senior Director to monitor and reconcile budget categories.
• Coordinate with faculty, departments, and community partners for student referrals and collaborative support efforts.
• Contribute to a culture of equity, belonging, and inclusive excellence in all aspects of the program.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Associate Director Consideration

A master's degree with two (2) years of related management/supervisory experience in higher education or an educational setting OR candidates with a bachelor's degree and at least four (4) years of related management experience in higher education or an educational setting. Experience working with federally funded programs (TRIO or similar), supervising staff, and serving underrepresented student populations is strongly preferred.

Assistant Director Consideration

Applicants with a bachelor's degree and two (2) years of strong and related management experience in higher education or an educational setting may be considered for an Assistant Director level position.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Knowledge of student development theory and high-impact practices for first-generation and income-eligible students. Skilled in program planning, implementation, and evaluation. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to mentor, coach, and lead a team. Proficiency in using data systems and tracking tools to monitor progress and inform decisions. Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners, as well as to manage multiple priorities, solve problems, and maintain confidentiality in student support services.

Additional Information for Applicant

This position requires a valid driver's license, and the ability to drive and qualify under the university's insurance carrier when driving a university and/or leased vehicle.

This role includes significant interaction with students and campus activities and is identified as a Campus Security Authority (CSA). The Associate Director is required to report any Clery Act crimes disclosed and remain compliant with annual CSA training requirements.

Physical Demand

Position requires the ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time and to move about the campus. It also requires the ability to talk and hear instruction, occasional manual dexterity to use hands and arms, and the ability to occasionally lift up to 10 pounds. Working conditions are primarily indoor.

Please note: This position is grant funded. As a result, the salary is tied to the grant award and is not negotiable.

To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6923108