ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - STUDENT SUCCESS

University of Alabama at Birmingham • University, MS

56d • $50,000

About The Position

To support the retention and graduation of UAB students, with a particular focus on the experiences of first-year and first-generation college students. This role includes direct support of First Blazers, a mentorship program connecting first-generation students with peer mentors, and oversight of UAB's participation in National First-generation College Celebration Week. The Assistant Director plays a key role in developing and implementing high-impact programming that fosters belonging, leadership, and academic engagement-including leading efforts for the annual Student Excellence Awards, a university-wide recognition of student achievement. In addition, this position contributes to the design and delivery of transitional experiences such as First Impact and Blazers@BHM, which support new students through onboarding, community engagement, and early leadership development. The Assistant Director will advise students, manage outreach and data tracking, supervise professional and student staff, and collaborate closely with the Associate Director of Student Involvement & Leadership to champion innovative approaches that help students thrive from matriculation to graduation.

Requirements

• A Master's Degree in Counseling, Higher Education Administration or an academic/instructional related field and two (2) years of related experience.
• Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Responsibilities

• Develops and supports transitional student success initiatives in the form of student organizations, programs, and events related to the retention and graduation of students. Develops culturally relevant programming to assist in student transitions while fostering a sense of belonging for program participants. Provides necessary activities for program participants related to their acculturation into the campus environment.
• Consults with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Analysis to identify current trends and challenges facing first generation college students at UAB. Consults with TRIO Academic Program to identify program participants. Oversees continuing support and follow-up activities for participants after completion of programs. Participates in Divisional, State, regional, and national professional training opportunities. Keeps abreast of latest knowledge and research in student retention and success. Assesses program participant outcomes by tracking academic progress and designing assessment tools related to participant's sense of belonging. Attends training and conducts presentations at regional and national professional organizations.
• Recruits peer coaches who are qualified to support mentees through their academic and social experience. Assists in the development and implementation of peer coach training program designed to support office and University goals related to retention and graduation. Provides leadership development opportunities for peer coaches. Connects mentors with university resources in support of their efforts to provide excellent mentorship to mentees. Serves on and chairs University committees on behalf of Student Involvement & Leadership and the Division of Student Affairs.
• Assesses the developmental needs and demonstrates culturally inclusive advising, supporting, coaching, and counseling strategies for student programs and organizations related to student transitions in college.
• Supervises unit staff; develops, encourages, promotes, and monitors professional growth of student and professional staff; develops and communicates performance and evaluation standards; ensures compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• UAB offers a robust state-funded pension plan through the Alabama Teacher's Retirement System and additional RSA benefits.
• We also provide parental leave, and exclusive discounts on tickets for various cultural and entertainment events.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees