Retention Assistant

Assistant collaborates closely with the Retention Coordinator, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Nursing Studies, faculty, staff, and campus support services to identify barriers to student success and implement proactive intervention strategies. Responsibilities include student support, resource coordination, mentoring support, program tracking, data management, and the delivery of services that foster student engagement, academic achievement, and persistence. In this capacity, the Retention Assistant serves as a resource and advocate for students, helping to support academic success and connecting with appropriate student support services while contributing to a welcoming, student-centered learning environment. This position reports directly to the Associate Dean for Nursing Affairs.

Essential Job Functions

Coordinate and Manage Student Success Programs

• Manage the daily operations, programs, and services of The Caring Place.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate student success and retention initiatives designed to promote academic achievement, progression, and graduation of undergraduate nursing students.

Provide Academic Support and Student Success Counseling

• Counsel, coach, and support students regarding academic performance, study strategies, and progression requirements.
• Facilitate learning activities and interventions that enhance student success in undergraduate nursing courses.

Connect Students to Support Resources

• Assess student needs and refer students to appropriate university and community resources that address academic, personal, financial, and wellness-related barriers to success.
• Collaborate with faculty and campus partners to identify and provide learning resources and support services.

Support Recruitment, Retention, and Program Assessment Activities

• Participate in recruitment and retention initiatives to attract, support, and retain qualified nursing students.
• Collaborate with faculty committees to support student success efforts, evaluate program outcomes, and identify factors that contribute to student achievement and persistence.

Maintain Student Success and Retention Data

• Maintain accurate and confidential records regarding student utilization of The Caring Place services, academic interventions, retention rates, program completion rates, and attrition factors.
• Generate reports and analyze data to support continuous improvement of retention and student success initiatives.

Minimum and Desired Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• Unencumbered Licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of Texas.
• Two (2) years of nursing experience.

Desired Qualifications:

• Three (3) years of nursing experience.
• Teaching experience preferred.
• Experience with student retention, persistence intervention, or student success initiatives.

Supplemental Information

Key Competencies:

• Application of knowledge of effective teaching-learning strategies, and instructional design and implementation.
• Proficiency in computer-based software applications including MS Word, Excel and Power Point.
• Student advocacy abilities within the framework of the JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing and university policies.
• Effective verbal/written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Leadership skills related to coordination or retention activities.
• Effective interpersonal skills with students and colleagues.

Physical Requirements: This position primarily performs sedentary work involving prolonged sitting and frequent use of a computer and other office equipment.

Job Conditions: Work if performed primarily in an office setting in a climate-controlled environment.

Special Note: We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Who We Are: Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance. Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community.

Benefits:

• Health, dental & vision insurance?
• Life insurance
• State of Texas Retirement plans
• Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents.
• Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.

To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Benefits - Lamar University

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.