Assistant/Associate Director, Student Support and Development

Fairfield University•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

Assistant/Associate Director, Student Support and development The Office of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs (SDMA) seeks to create a sense of belonging, community, and safe space for students to engage in cross-cultural experiences and expand their worldviews. The office establishes meaningful relationships with student organizations, faculty, and staff. It offers programs and services that promote and foster an inclusive living and learning community. Students will obtain a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity, multiculturalism, and social justice Position Description : The Assistant or Associate Director of Student Support and Development plays a key role in advancing Fairfield University’s Jesuit mission by designing and leading initiatives that support the academic success, holistic well-being, and leadership development of students. Reporting to the Director of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, the Assistant or Associate Director provides strategic oversight of high-impact programs that promote access, retention and social justice–oriented leadership, while contributing to strategic planning and long-term goals of the office

Requirements

Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Social Work, or a related field.
Minimum of five years of experience working with college students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds or identities.
Strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.
Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
Experience overseeing mentoring, fellowship, or cohort-based programs.

Responsibilities

Serve as a resource and advocate for students.
Develop and implement workshops, programs, and initiatives that promote leadership, resilience, and intercultural competence.
Monitor and support retention efforts for students through tailored programs and services.
Work closely with the transition coordinator, the Academic Support graduate assistant and campus partners to support students holistically as they navigate Fairfield.
Provide ongoing supervision to the Academic Support grad assistant.
Oversee program design, mentor recruitment, training, student matching, and assessment.
In collaboration with the Senior Director of Diversity Initiatives, oversee the Lucy Katz Fellowship.
Manage program design, fellow selection processes, leadership development, and training.
Establish programs and services aligned with the mission of the office that promote a sense of belonging and the success of underrepresented student populations.
Coordinate monthly gatherings for Students of Color groups.
Develop and execute marketing strategies to promote the office and its programs.
Represent the office on committees and working groups as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned.