Lead Academic Success Advisor, Student-Athlete Focus

Gardner Webb University•Boiling Springs, NC

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Academic Services for Student-Athletes role provides comprehensive support to ensure the holistic success and eligibility of Gardner-Webb University students. While this position serves as the primary point of contact for student-athlete academic services, it functions as a collaborative member of the Division of Student Success. As such, the individual will maintain a diverse advising portfolio that includes Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) and GWU Online students.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in education or a related field.
Previous experience or a strong desire to work with diverse student populations, including online students and traditional campus students.
Mastery of Microsoft Office Suite and campus-wide databases (e.g., Banner, Cornerstone).
Willingness to contribute to Gardner-Webb University’s Christian mission and the Division of Student Success’ values: access, empowerment, inclusivity, partnership, and growth.
Strong "customer-friendly" skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to handle confidential information (FERPA) with professional integrity.

Nice To Haves

2 years of related work or training.
Experience as a student-athlete is a significant plus.

Responsibilities

Serve as the lead advisor for assigned undeclared student-athletes and secondary success coach for all student-athletes.
Conduct weekly meetings with at-risk student-athletes to review grades, syllabi, task sheets, and academic "gameplans".
Monitor NCAA and GWU satisfactory progress requirements; assist the Registrar and Compliance Office with athletic certification and banner coding.
Collect travel schedules from coaches to develop faculty travel letters and manage course withdrawal documentation.
Assist in the recruitment of prospective student-athletes by presenting academic support services.
Serve as a designated academic advisor for Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) and GWU Online students, ensuring high-quality guidance regardless of the student’s delivery mode.
Utilize proactive advising strategies to support retention for both campus-based and distance learners.
Communicate and recommend university resources (Noel Center, Financial Planning, International Student Office, etc.) to all student populations.
Enhance student wellness through mentorship, leadership training, and professional development workshops.
Develop plans to increase student-athlete involvement in the broader campus community.
Attend departmental meetings and serve on campus committees to represent the interests of Student Success.