Student Success Specialist

Job Description Summary

Organization's Summary Statement :

Under the administrative supervision of the Deputy Athletic Director, the Student Success Specialist plays a crucial role in the daily operations of the new Office of Student-Athlete Success. This position is responsible for delivering comprehensive academic support tailored to the specific needs of assigned teams, ensuring that all student-athletes receive the guidance and resources necessary to excel both academically and athletically.

The Student Success Specialist will implement and track the department's program goals and objectives, working collaboratively to create an environment conducive to student success. A significant aspect of this role will involve identifying and providing targeted support for academically at-risk student-athletes from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their academic aspirations.

Furthermore, the Student Success Specialist will collaborate with coaches, support staff, and administrative personnel, fostering a team-oriented approach to promoting the overall success of the student-athlete population. Regular meetings and communication with these stakeholders will be essential to align strategies and ensure that the resources offered effectively meet the needs of all student-athletes. This dynamic position requires a strong commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience and helping them thrive in the classroom and their respective sports.

This is a Full-time Grant Funded position and continuation of the position is dependent on funding.

Responsibilities :

1.Facilitate enhancing academic programs by teaching students effective learning strategies, time management skills, and relevant academic resources. This includes evaluating each student's academic strengths and weaknesses and assisting them in crafting personalized academic plans to achieve their educational objectives.

2.Develop and implement comprehensive orientation programs for new students, including engaging advising activities that help familiarize them with campus resources and academic expectations.

3.Coordinate advising functions by serving as a key liaison among students, faculty, academic departments, and various campus services, ensuring seamless communication and support throughout the educational journey.

4.Actively participate in the transfer process and initial eligibility certification for incoming student-athletes while also overseeing the ongoing eligibility status for all student-athletes on a semester basis.

5.Monitor and assess the academic progress of student-athletes towards their degree requirements and NCAA eligibility, providing guidance and support as needed.

6.Play a vital role in collecting and analyzing data necessary for completing annual NCAA reports, including but not limited to the Academic Progress Report (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR), as well as any additional reports required.

7.Collaborate with coaches to evaluate and assess the learning needs of prospective student-athletes across all sports programs, ensuring that they receive the appropriate support to succeed academically.

8.Serve as a crucial link between colleges and academic departments by interpreting and clarifying academic policies, procedures, and curriculum issues, promoting a better understanding among all stakeholders.

9.Ensure timely and accurate submission of mandated forms, reports, assessments, and audits as required by academic and athletic regulations

10.Contribute to preparing NCAA, MEAC, and NEC waivers, petitions, and appeals, working in partnership with the Faculty Athletics Representative or Associate Athletics Director for Academics when appropriate.

11.Assist in the organization and oversight of study hall programming for student-athletes, which includes tracking attendance and ensuring compliance with study hall requirements.

12.May hold supervisory responsibilities, providing training and guidance to other staff members or students workers to enhance their effectiveness within the team.

13.Undertake other duties as assigned to support the overall mission and objectives of the academic support program.

Minimum Required Qualifications :

1.Bachelor's Degree

2.One year of experience working in high school or college athletics or at a professional level.

Required Knowledge / Skills / Abilities :

1. Excellent organizational skills to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with competing deadlines. 2. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships within a diverse community.

2.Ability to effectively use computer application programs and related computer software packages (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite : Word, Excel, database, internet)

3.Some knowledge of and compliance with NCAA rules is a condition of employment in this position.

4.Ability to work independently and complete assignments without direct supervision.

5.Ability to set priorities and complete assignments accurately within designated timelines.

6.Demonstrated strong commitment to inclusion and diversity, including but not limited to differences in ethnicity, national origin, race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identification, and ability.

7.Demonstrated dedication to continuous personal and professional development.

8.Ability to work nights and weekends for UMES Athletics and other University sponsored events

9.Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and comply with the University's vehicle use policy.

Physical Demands : May require extended periods of sitting at desk. May require lifting up to 25 lbs. Requires communication with a variety of constituents externally and internally. Requires operation of a variety of office

Preferences : N / A

Licenses / Certifications : N / A

Minimum Qualifications

Education : Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience : One (1) year of experience in higher education.

Other : Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education. Knowledge of human resources policies and procedures, and federal, state, and other applicable human resources related laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances.

Knowledge of best practices in organization and administration.

Skill in oral and written communication.

Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.

Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.

Ability to multitask while demonstrating a commitment to customer service and sensitivity to a culturally and ethnically diverse community.

Additional Job Details

Required Application Materials : Cover letter, resume, and the names of three current professional references including e-mail address, and telephone number. All applicants must apply using the new online application system. Please visit to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.

Best Consideration Date : 02 / 27 / 2025

Posting Close Date : N / A

Open Until Filled : Yes

Department

UMES-VPAR-Athletics Administrative

Worker Sub-Type

Staff Regular

Salary Range

65,000 - $75,000

EEO Statement

UMES is an EEO / AA employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or political affiliation. Minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.

Diversity Statement

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is an equal access, equal opportunity institution fully committed to diversity in education and employment. All students, employees, and the campus community at UMES are valued, respected, and have the opportunity to receive an equitable experience in an inclusive, welcoming environment of openness and appreciation.

Title IX Statement

It is the policy of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) to comply with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) based on sex in the University's educational programs and activities. Title IX also prohibits retaliation for asserting or otherwise participating in claims of sex discriminations or harassment.

Salary : $65,000 - $75,000