Director of Student Engagement

Position Title: Director of Student Engagement

Reports To: Vice President of Student Life

Salary: $95,000 - $110,000

Position Summary:

The Director of Student Engagement is responsible for the strategic development and oversight of programs that promote student involvement, leadership, and campus community building. This role focuses on creating opportunities for students to engage in co-curricular activities, develop leadership skills, and participate in service-learning and civic engagement. The Director works collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff to ensure that these programs align with Manhattan University's mission, core values, and contribute to a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. Duties include providing leadership training programs, the development of co-curricular student leadership curriculums, student engagement programs, clubs and organizations, Greek Life, and SGA to support campus-wide program needs. This role also oversees Student Orientation and directly contributes to the institution's efforts to increase retention and overall students and families satisfaction.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for student engagement and leadership programs, aligned with the institution's goals and values.
• Create and oversee programs that foster student involvement, including student organizations, leadership training, service-learning, and campus events.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and make data-driven adjustments to improve student participation and outcomes.
• Design and facilitate leadership training programs, workshops, and retreats for students, focusing on skills such as communication, teamwork, ethical decision-making, and cultural competency.
• Support student leaders in their roles within student organizations, providing guidance on governance, event planning, and conflict resolution.
• Develop and implement policies that promote accountability, inclusivity, and sustainability within student organizations.
• Coordinate major campus events and traditions, including but not limited to orientation programs, First Six Weeks, Manhattan Madness, Family Weekend, First Year Experience, student recognition ceremonies, and leadership awards.
• Collaborate with various campus departments to ensure events are well-organized, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse student body.
• Work closely with academic and administrative departments to integrate student engagement and leadership initiatives into the broader campus experience.
• Develop and implement assessment tools to measure the impact of student engagement and leadership programs on student development and success.
• Prepare regular reports on program outcomes, student participation, and areas for improvement.
• The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that logically relate to the position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide students and staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse campus communities.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proven track record of developing and managing successful student programs and initiatives.
• Experience with event planning, student advising, and budget management.
• Understanding of student development theory and best practices in leadership education.
• Preferred experience working in a multicultural urban setting.

Physical Requirements:

• Occasional physical activity, handling objects of average weight up to fifty (50) pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience working directly with students in a leadership or coaching capacity, in a higher education setting.
• Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours that may include working nights and weekends.
• Experience working in a multi-cultural urban setting is required; sensitivity to appropriate academic, social, cultural development and learning outcomes is essential.
• Requires flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm with a strong desire to effect change and impact student engagement.
• Ability to promote and lead an inclusive, engaging and diverse university environment

In compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), those functions of the job which are identified essential are required to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations. Requests to facilitate the performance of essential functions will be given careful consideration.

Founded in 1853, Manhattan University is an independent Catholic Lasallian institution located in Riverdale, NY that embraces students of all faiths, cultures, and traditions. The mission of the University is to provide a dynamic student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for lives of personal development, professional success, civic engagement, and service to their fellow human beings. We expect our faculty, administration, and staff to be knowledgeable about our mission and to make a positive contribution to the mission. Applicants from historically under-represented segments of the population are encouraged to apply, as well as those attracted to a university with a Catholic identity. We are committed to a diverse campus community. AA/EO Employer M/F/D/V