Director, Academic Advisement Center

Saginaw Valley State University • Lexington, MA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Director of the Academic Advisement Center reports directly to the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs or Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs and plays a pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission through the implementation of strategic planning, assessment of academic advising services, orientation, and supporting student success and retention. The director oversees academic advisors, new student orientation, develops advising policies and training programs, and collaborates with faculty and staff to ensure students receive high quality academic guidance.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Five years of related work experience in higher education in the areas of academic advising or student support services.
• Demonstrated administrative experience including supervision, program management, and budgeting.
• Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and under occasional pressure.
• Ability to work a flexible and varied schedule.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly.
• Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated understanding of curriculum and curricular processes.
• Experience with student information systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a vision for advising services that aligns with institutional goals for student success and retention.
• Direct the operation, management, and evaluation of undergraduate academic advising services and related programming, utilizing current best practices.
• Provide leadership and supervision to Peer Advisors, the First-Year Programs Coordinator, Second Year Programs Coordinator, Coordinator of Orientation, and specialized programs of distinction such as the Global Foundation Scholars, Thompson Scholars, and the Academic Advisor for the Athletics Department, ensuring these initiatives effectively support student success and engagement.
• Manage the planning, coordination, and execution of Orientation, Transfer Orientation, and Parent Orientation programs to ensure a seamless and engaging onboarding experience for all participants.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate professional advisors, ensuring consistent and effective advising practices, including fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for students and staff.
• Collaborate closely with early enrollment and dual enrollment programs.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of students entering the University with dual enrollment credits, Advanced Placement credits, or advanced class standing, while recognizing they are not classified as transfer students.
• Oversee the AI Chatbot, “Coop the Cardinal” that works with retention and information from orientation through graduation.
• Assisting in data analysis is essential for monitoring enrollment, retention, at-risk students, and course offerings.
• Implement professional development programs for departmental staff members.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and assessment of retention-based programs.
• Administer and manage departmental budgets.
• Engage with academic departments regarding curriculum and program changes.
• Prepare retention reports and program assessments by analyzing advising data and student feedback to assess the effectiveness of advising services and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with other campus offices in providing programs and support services.
• Serve on appropriate university committees and councils, including enrollment management teams.
• Provide advising services for students when there is a need.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Excellent retirement package and employee benefits.
• Professional development to support and grow employees.
• Prioritizing the health and well-being of our employees through programs and gym memberships.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director