"Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs"

Chief Objective of Position

The Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs assists in fostering campus life through the development and implementation of intentional transitional programming tailored to meet the needs of Christopher Newport Students. Reporting to the Associate Director of Orientation and Student Involvement, will develop, execute, and assess programs that provide enriching transitional experiences, engage students, and enhance student’s overall learning and development.

Work Tasks

1. Contributes to the long-term vision for orientation and transition initiatives within Student Affairs.
2. Supervises two Coordinators and directs the recruitment, selection, and training of the Student Directors of Orientation and Crew Leaders.
3. Coordinates the planning, implementation, and evaluation of university orientation programs to include Setting Sail, Changing Tides, and Welcome Week.
4. Responsible for the year-long communication plan for incoming students, to include: Management of the design and operations of the Admitted Student System (VisualZen platform), updates to the university website, Captain’s Connect (Raftr), social media, email, phone, and texting communication, and any additional social platforms established by the department.
5. Creates engagement opportunities for undergraduate students, with a particular focus on the first-year and second-year students and graduating seniors. These may include workshops, programs, seminars, series, training exercises, and ceremonies. Initiatives should demonstrate a commitment to providing inclusive offerings that appeal to students from a wide variety of backgrounds and life experiences.
6. Oversees the creation and implementation of programming designed to increase a sense of belonging for all Christopher Newport University students.
7. Shares in the overall direction of the department by assuming direct responsibility and supervision of specific task forces, committees and/or programs.
8. Assists with departmental research and assessments efforts, specifically assesses student satisfaction, student-learning outcomes, and evaluates the quality of service delivery to ascertain valuable feedback that shapes orientation. Uses information to contribute towards regular and annual departmental reports.
9. Works cooperatively with administrative units in Student Affairs, Enrollment and Student Success, Admission, Auxiliary Services and personnel affiliated with student success on university retention initiatives.
10. Collaborates with colleagues on individual student issues while also supporting broader departmental initiatives.
11. In consultation with the Director of Orientation and Student Involvement, solicits, negotiates and executes contracts for activities and speakers performing on the CNU campus in conjunction with orientation and campus life initiatives.
12. Supports major office events and initiatives, including, but not limited to: Student Leadership Awards, Senior Recognition events, Homecoming, Recognized Student Organization training and event support, Fraternity and Sorority Recruitment, and the Involvement Fair. This may include participation at night and on weekends.
13. Participate in university events, such as Commencement, Move-In, and special Presidential Events, that support the academic mission of the University, the work of students, the goals of student organizations, and the mission of the Student Affairs team. This may include participation at night and on weekends.
14. Develops a customer service approach to more effectively promote the “students first” initiative ensuring that all constituents are served in a fast, friendly, efficient and effective manner. Develops and maintains very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect. Full supports CNU Traditions and the “Students First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
15. Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position. Report unsafe work conditions to your supervisor. Immediately report work-related incidents to your supervisor and participate in accident investigation requests. Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards, processes, and programs established for employees under your supervision. Ensure employees under your supervision are trained in safety standards and procedures for their positions. Report work-related incidents within 24 hours according to the procedures established by the university, state and federal guidelines.
16. This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.
17. This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities.” A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.
18. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Must be highly motivated, innovative and creative.
• Strong computer skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines and organize work to ensure the timely delivery of services and support.
• Ability to foster positive internal and external public relations.
• Ability to work both independently and on a team. Ability to consult with faculty, administrators, students, and families.
• Ability to work nights and weekends.

Required Education

Master’s Degree or a Bachelor’s degree with experience that equates to a advanced degree.

Additional Consideration - Education

Master’s Degree in: Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs Administration, Student Personnel Development, or a related field.

Experience Required

Professional experience beyond post graduate level. Experience in developing, planning, and executing programs. Experience collaborating with various constituents.

Additional Consideration - Experience

Professional experience with orientation and student transition initiatives in a university setting. Customer service experience with a diverse population of constituents. Experience advising students and managing personnel and departmental resources. Experience developing, implementing and evaluating assessment measures.