Director of International Student Engagement and Support

Alabama A&M University•Normal, IL

64d

About The Position

The Director of International Student Engagement & Support serves as the chief leader for international student services, compliance, and engagement initiatives. This role is responsible for ensuring the university meets federal requirements for visa-holding students while cultivating an inclusive, supportive environment for their transition and success. The Director provides vision and oversight for international programming, orientation, retention, and leadership development, while also supervising professional staff who contribute to broader student success and support efforts, such as parent/family engagement, leadership education, and diversity programs.

Requirements

Master's degree.
Three to five years related work experience; preferably in a university setting.
Demonstrated understanding of, and a commitment to the university mission and purpose; teaching and learning; high academic standards; and student success.
Ability to work a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends as needed.
Knowledge and experience using integrated software systems and Microsoft applications (with proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, Publisher, Excel, and PowerPoint presentation).
Demonstrated organizational skills with attention to detail.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with students, employees, and the public.
Skill in facilitating and modeling a quality customer service orientation.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population.
Ability to efficiently multi-task and conduct/complete independent work assignments.
Demonstrated excellent oral and written interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with students, faculty, and the general public
Ability to critically, analyze and synthesize information

Responsibilities

Serve as the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Serve as the Responsible Officer (RO) for J-1 Exchange Visitors.
Ensure institutional compliance with federal immigration regulations (F-1/J-1), SEVIS reporting, and document issuance.
Provide direct services and advising to international students and exchange visitors on immigration, cultural adjustment, employment, and academic success.
Supervise the Coordinator of Leadership & Student Support Programs, providing guidance on leadership development, parent/family engagement, and student support initiatives.
Lead strategic planning and assessment for international student support services and broader student engagement initiatives within the portfolio.
Plan and implement cultural, educational, and social programs that foster cross-cultural understanding and community building, such as International Education Week.
Coordinate and deliver international student orientation and transition programs each semester.
Cultivate relationships with campus partners (e.g., Housing, Academic Affairs, Career Development Services) to support the holistic success of international students.
Provide oversight to leadership development initiatives delivered through the coordinator role, such as Bulldogs LEAD, parent/family engagement efforts, and other workshops supporting first-generation and international students.
Support international student organizations, including the International Student Association (ISA) and Tau Sigma Honor Society (for transfer students).
Lead efforts to secure external funding opportunities, corporate sponsorships, and grants that support student engagement, leadership development, and international programs.
Partner with internal and external organizations to identify and cultivate resources that enhance student services and programming.
Maintain strong working relationships with campus offices such as Admissions, Registrar, Academic Affairs, and Athletics to ensure seamless service delivery for international students.
Represent the university in professional organizations (e.g., NAFSA) and maintain expertise in evolving immigration and compliance regulations.
Support weekend and late-night programs as needed.
Participate in divisional leadership meetings and contribute to institutional initiatives related to student retention and success.