Associate Director Of Access & Disability Services

St. Ambrose University • Cedar Rapids, IA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Associate Director of Access & Disability Services The Mount Mercy campus of Saint Ambrose University seeks an Associate Director of Access & Disability Services to play a lead role in the provision of access and disability services in the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) . This is a full-time, 12-month position on the Mount Mercy campus in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The Associate Director plays a key role in the development and delivery of services, accommodations, and resources for students with disabilities to ensure equitable access to university academic and co-curricular programs. The Associate Director works closely with ACE staff to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment to support all students and improve retention, persistence and progression to graduation. Ensuring the university complies with all applicable laws and best practices for accessibility, the Associate Director will serve as a knowledgeable and integral resource for university students, faculty, and staff.

Requirements

• Master's degree in higher education, counseling, special education, psychology, or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in disability services or a related field in an education setting including experience working directly with students with disabilities.
• Strong knowledge of relevant access and disability laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADAA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and other disability-related legislation in higher education.
• Proven experience in providing accommodations and support for students with a range of disabilities, including neurodiversity, mental health, learning, physical, and sensory disabilities.
• Must be proficient in using MS Excel as well as able to effectively use other office productivity software including but not limited to, Microsoft 365, Outlook, Teams, and Adobe.
• Proven ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with FERPA, ADAA and institutional policies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the interactive process with students for determining eligibility for reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended (ADAA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and other federal, state, and local regulations.
• Develop individualized accommodation plans for students with complex, multiple, or temporary disabilities and ensure they are implemented consistently, equitably, and in a timely manner across academic and co-curricular environments.
• Advise students on utilizing university resources effectively and connecting them with additional services, resources and departments as needed.
• Serve as the case manager for an assigned caseload of students with disabilities, advocate for their needs, and ensure they have equal access to campus services and programs.
• Facilitate coordination of access services across campus departments including but not limited to; Academic Affairs, Residence Life, Athletics, IT, Dining Services, Facilities, and Public Safety ensuring equitable access to buildings, classrooms, events, and MMU student experiences.
• Lead the development and implementation of disability awareness campaigns for students, faculty and staff aimed at increasing campus-wide understanding of disability and accessibility standards, issues, laws, and inclusive practices.
• Represent Access & Disability Services and academic support programs to students, faculty, staff, and visitors at campus events including campus visit days, registration days, and other outreach opportunities. These events may require occasional evening and/or weekend hours.
• Maintain and analyze accurate data records of accommodation services and student outcomes to assess program effectiveness, especially related to retention, persistence, and graduation rates.
• Assist with the preparation of annual reports of Academic Support Programs to assist in program development, revisions, and initiatives.
• Demonstrate outstanding interpersonal, organizational, communication, and decision-making skills in a fast-paced, student-centered academic center.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Tuition remission benefits
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A supportive and collaborative work environment
• Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees