Associate Program Manager

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

Grove Scholars at the University of Mississippi is redefining success for Mississippi's underserved students in STEM, health sciences, and accounting. Through intensive mentoring, financial support, and strategic resources, we take a holistic approach to helping first-generation and low-income students to excel from their first summer on campus to graduation. Grounded in hard work, integrity, and excellence, our mission is not just to help students earn degrees but to empower them as leaders who will transform their communities and drive Mississippi's future. Our goal is clear-to be the nation's premier targeted student services program.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information. For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -Student & Academic Services

Sub-Family -Student Programs

Career Track / Level - P2

Grade -5

Role Summary

Provides a co-curricular experience that provides opportunities for learning and development outside of the classroom experience.

The Associate Program Manager, Grove Scholars plays a critical role in mentoring first-generation and high-achieving students, guiding them through rigorous academic programs while fostering leadership development and career readiness. This position supports student success by providing individualized mentorship, coordinating key program initiatives, and strengthening partnerships across campus. Responsibilities include student recruitment, event planning, and the expansion of summer opportunities, all aimed at enhancing retention and graduation outcomes. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a commitment to education access, ensuring students have the resources and support needed to thrive. By shaping both individual student experiences and program-wide initiatives, the Associate Program Manager contributes to Grove Scholars’ mission of transforming Mississippi’s future leaders.

Examples of Work Performed

• Student Mentorship & Academic Support: Conduct one-on-one meetings with a caseload of Grove Scholars to create individualized success plans, address academic or personal challenges, and connect students with campus resources. Track student progress using university advising tools and provide timely interventions to ensure retention and graduation.
• Program Coordination & Event Management: Organize and execute student engagement initiatives, including career development workshops, community service projects, and networking events. Coordinate logistics for the summer Bridge Program and expand upperclassmen summer opportunities in collaboration with university partners.
• Recruitment & Outreach: Assist in recruiting and on-boarding new Grove Scholars by attending admissions events, conducting student interviews, and developing outreach strategies targeting high-achieving, first-generation students. Work closely with faculty, advisors, and community partners to identify prospective students.
• Reporting & Communication: Maintain detailed student progress reports and contribute to program assessments that measure the effectiveness of mentoring and academic initiatives. Participate in bi-weekly staff meetings and communicate program updates to leadership, ensuring alignment with the university’s student success goals.
• Professional Development & Student Leadership: Guide students in leadership roles within the program by fostering skill-building opportunities, encouraging participation in student organizations, and facilitating connections to research, internships, and study abroad programs. Stay informed of best practices in student success and higher education by engaging in professional development activities.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following. Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Oversees scheduling logistics, securing resources, and facilitating one or more student programs, activities and/or services, which may include special events, student organizations, student publications, and student governance structures.
2. Assists with the design and delivery of student-focused programming and associated resources and materials to promote new and ongoing programs and initiatives.
3. Answers questions and provides information and resources to individual students and groups based on established materials and standards.
4. Assists with advising and training student workers and volunteers as needed.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (3) Three Years Experience

An equivalent combination of related experience and education may be considered for this role. Substitutions of the required experience or education will be assessed on a 1:1 substitution basis.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements: These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis.

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion: The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision: Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination: While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.