Duties/Responsibilities:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties or responsibility requirements. Employees may be required to perform other job-related instructions as requested by the supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

• Serve as a mentor and support person for first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Provide appropriate resources to help ensure a successful transition to university life. Develop a successful navigational plan through academic and student life programs, financial aid and business office protocols, course registration, and housing signups. Make referrals to appropriate offices on campus and in the community. Monitor academic progress and retention to increase the success of first-generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Coordinate efforts that support first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including financial aid resources, internal and external funding opportunities, food insecurity, and other student services.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and community contacts on programs and events that provide techniques for addressing the needs of first-generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Work to identify community resources and opportunities for community engagement for first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Serve on the Student Intervention Team (SIT) to help identify and provide support to and increase the success rate for students who are identified as being “at risk”. Provide appropriate support and follow-up to enhance retention and student success.
• Serve with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and students on various university committees. Work with external constituencies to proactively develop and implement plans, programs, and activities that educate and motivate members of the University community to support first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and to promote the success of those students.
• Provide advice and mentorship to campus affinity groups that provide support and belonging for first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Performs other duties that support the student affairs division and the University.

Required Skills/Abilities:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum knowledge, skills, and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelors Degree required; Master’s preferred in education, guidance and counseling, or student services is required for program development. One year of directly related experience which may include internship and/or practicum.
• Knowledge of policies, programs, and services affecting students with disabilities.
• Knowledge of community support services and funding agencies.
• Ability to understand a residential campus in order to serve the constituencies.
• Proficient management skills in order to direct department resources.
• Ability to communicate effectively in order to relate to students, faculty, employers, and so forth.
• Needs substantial experience on a college campus and/or community.
• Ability to work cooperatively with campus faculty and staff.
• Leadership skills needed to prepare and implement student programs.
• Ability to present a professional appearance.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors Degree required; Master’s preferred in education, guidance and counseling, or student services is required for program development
• Experience in working with first generation students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds to increase their chances of success in the college setting.
• One year of directly related experience which may include internship and/or practicum.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; climb or balance; and stoop or kneel. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

WORKING AT DU HAS ITS BENEFITS:

• Generous time off including 4 weeks of paid time off starting your first year
• Free tuition for your whole family
• Free tickets to Drury home sporting events
• Health and wellness benefits at extremely competitive rates
• Free use of onsite fitness center on Springfield campus
• Discounted meals and Drury merchandise on campus