Student Affairs - Director of the Student Experience

Summary: 

The highly visible incumbent is responsible for implementing the mission and vision of D’Youville University and the Division of Student Affairs while directing the student experience on campus from the moment a campus tour occurs through commencement. This position will provide administrative oversight for the total holistic experience on campus which encompasses tours, open houses, orientation programs for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and student leadership positions. The successful candidate will be a highly organized, self-starter who thrives amidst an ever-changing and unpredictable work environment and will have demonstrated skills in the areas of programming and student development. The Director of the Student Experience will report directly to the Dean of Students & Title IX Coordinator, is responsible for the departmental budget and will serve on various University committees. Evening and weekend hours may be required when the university is in session to manage workload and attend meetings and student functions. This position will help to ensure that the University is “student-ready” and that every student has the opportunity to be engaged outside of the classroom.

Responsibilities: 

• Coordinate an energetic, modern campus tour experience for perspective students and their families;
• Recruit, train, and supervise a student staff of approximately 20 university ambassadors (tour guides), approximately 35 orientation leaders, and 1 graduate assistant student from a local higher education administration program;
• In partnership with admissions, develop and implement an innovative open house experience that engages both perspective students and their families showcasing D’Youville University;
• Create and manage a modern student orientation model for both undergraduate and graduate students that showcases academics, campus life, student support, and leadership development;
• Advise the Student Engagement Committee of the Student Government Association assisting in providing a robust outside-the-classroom co-curricular experience including but not limited to: Welcome Back Weeks, Redfest, Online experiences, and other events;
• Plan and execute established university tradition events included but not limited to: Student Appreciation Day, Winterfest, Unpacking, Drool Cup, Celebration Week (Senior Week);
• Manage the student support piece of EAB;
• Provide supervision, development, and feedback for all appropriate department staff;
• Collaborate with the Student Affairs team on the administration of a comprehensive student experience program for all students;
• Develop policies and procedures for the recognition and support of co-curricular involvement in collaboration with the Coordinator for Student Affairs;
• Serve as a key member of the Public Ceremonies Committee which provides leadership for institutional commencement ceremonies;
• Attend bi-weekly 1:1 meetings with the Dean of Students and monthly divisional meetings;
• Manage departmental assessment efforts and data gathering, respond to data/statistical inquiries from campus stakeholders, and ensure student development and satisfaction;
• Ensure a student-centered departmental environment with a focus on customer service;
• Support the overall campus programming model by collaborating with faculty, staff, and SGA on initiatives and events;
• Collaborate with faculty and staff across campus to ensure programmatic efforts are met;
• Serve as a SUNY Conduct Institute trained investigator/hearing panel officer;
• Other duties as assigned by the Dean of Students & Title IX Coordinator

Qualifications: 

Education: 

• Master's degree in Higher Education Administration or related field.

Experience: 

• 4-6 years of professional experience within Student Affairs showing progressive responsibilities

Skills & Abilities:

• Highly organized, demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing priorities;
• Demonstrated experience working in or supervision of student leadership programming;
• Thorough knowledge and proven track record in Student Affairs, including policy development, programming and student development;
• Strong cross-cultural, interpersonal, and writing skills necessary, including the ability to represent the University in a positive way to all populations;
• Possesses a demonstrated ability to develop linkages with community partners through significant outreach efforts to support programming efforts, student success in and out of the classroom;
• Ability to innovative and create programs that supports student learning, leading to increased persistence and graduation rates across the entire student population;
• Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals on campus and in all areas of the community to accomplish student life objectives;
• Ability to make sound professional judgments, often under deadline pressure, when dealing with student related issues;
• A proven ability to identify and address problems, exhibit competence in identifying and interpreting needed areas of assessment, display sensitivity regarding personnel matters and the ability to participate effectively in short and long-range planning
• Possess the ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations;
• Handle multiple tasks and priorities at once while solving problems and thinking innovatively;
• Administrative, organizational, supervisory, and budget-management skills;
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, stair climbing, maneuvering objects of substantial weight;
• Responding promptly in late-night hours while remaining alert;
• Must possess a student-centered personal philosophy and an amazing sense of humor

Work Remotely - No

Work Location: Buffalo, NY

Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 Annually

Additional Salary Information

The salary range reflects our good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting, the role and associated responsibilities, and the experience, education, and training of the selected candidate.

About D'Youville University: 

Shaping the Future of Education at D'Youville University

D’Youville University, a nationally ranked private university in Buffalo, New York, is transforming lives through a unique blend of academics and holistic development. Committed to promoting a health mind, body, and spirit, D’Youville empowers individuals to realize their potential, thrive in their careers, and make meaningful contributions to society.

 A Dynamic and Purpose-Driven Community

Located on Buffalo’s vibrant West Side, just blocks from a bustling downtown, D’Youville University is deeply embedded in an energetic, diverse urban landscape. Under the visionary leadership of President Lorrie Clemo, the university is undergoing an exciting evolution, with innovative initiatives designed to meet societal needs, elevate student experiences, expand career readiness, and solidify our role as a leader in 21st-century education.

A Place for Growth and Innovation

D’Youville University offers education across health sciences and business, with a range of degree levels, advanced certificates, accelerated paths, and community-engaged learning experiences. Our dedication to preparing students for successful careers is showcased in our national ranking for social mobility making us the top private university in the City of Buffalo.  

Why Work with Us?

As a D’Youville University Saint, you’ll be joining a collaborative, innovation-driven community committed to academic excellence, social responsibility, and transformative growth. When you join our team, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to a university making a real difference—for our students, our community, and our world. Explore the possibilities at dyu.edu.

All job offers are contingent upon legal authorization to work in New York State as determined by the NYS Department of Labor. 

Salary : $55,000 - $65,000