Graduate Assistant, University Programming Board

James Madison University•Harrisonburg, VA

About The Position

This position will assist with the mission of Student Life to foster belonging through the personal growth and development of an engaged citizenry by providing welcoming experiences and spaces.   This position is a 20 hour/week assistantship for the 2026-2027 academic year

Requirements

The successful candidate will be a full-time graduate student for the 2026 - 2027 academic year.
Experience in event planning and implementation
Experience with supervising, advising, or providing leadership to students, particularly in a organizational context
A commitment to collaboration across functional areas

Responsibilities

Co-advise the University Program Board with the University Program Board Coordinator
Attend and contribute to weekly executive board meetings (Monday 5-6pm)
Attend committee meetings as needed (Mondays 8-9pm)
Plan and facilitate one-on-one meetings with 6-7 assigned UPB executive board members. Can occur weekly, bi-weekly, or every 3 weeks as needed by the executive board position
Assist UPB executive board members in the coordination of major campus events, including but not limited to big-picture planning, volunteer coordination, contract management, event implementation, and event evaluation
Participate in the executive board selection and hiring process
Provide the executive board and general membership with constructive feedback
Assist in the continued development of UPB’s new member program
Attend UPB sponsored events (including nights and weekends), as necessary
Gain an understanding of policies and procedures in Student Life, JMU, and the Commonwealth of Virginia, as they relate to event planning and Student Life functions
Attend conferences, workshops, and professional development meetings as deemed appropriate, including attendance at least one NACA conference (regional or national)
Serve on the De-Stress Fest planning committee
Serve on the Explore Madison planning committee
Stay late/return early for academic breaks, as deemed necessary
Create and maintain a schedule designed to meet assistantship requirements, including working weekends and evenings as needed
Uphold clear, consistent communication with supervisor and other necessary parties
Perform designated tasks in a timely, organized and professional manner
Other duties and/or special projects as assigned