TRIO Outreach & Retention Specialist

Lake Land College, IL•Mattoon, IL

52d

About The Position

The Outreach & Retention Specialist provides direct support to the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS), TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) STEM, and TRIO Talent Search (TS) programs by assisting with outreach, recruitment, intake, and engagement activities. This associate-level position plays a key role in connecting eligible students to TRIO services, supporting program events and trips, and helping ensure participants are engaged and retained. The Outreach & Retention Specialist works collaboratively with TRIO staff across all three programs.Essential Job Functions:

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in human services, business, or related fields, or an Associate's Degree and at least two years of experience working with underrepresented individuals.
Experience in event planning, outreach, or student services.
Experience in presenting and sharing ideas.
Knowledge of a community college system is required. Knowledge of project management, event planning, and interpersonal communication
Understanding of barriers to student success, particularly for first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented populations
Familiarity with outreach, recruitment, and retention strategies
Knowledge of basic office practices, data entry, and recordkeeping
Understanding of confidentiality standards, such as FERPA, and ethical practices in student support.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written.
Ability to build positive, professional relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners.
Skill in planning, coordinating, and facilitating events, workshops, and presentations.
Organizational and time-management skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
Problem-solving skills and the ability to respond effectively to student needs and challenges.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population of students and staff.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with diverse student populations, including first-generation and low-income students.
Experience in a higher education setting preferred.
Background similar to that of the target population
strong sense of commitment to the community college philosophy and the continuous process of career and life planning
ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Works consistently to further the college's vision and values.
Work collaboratively with immediate peers and other departmental areas to support student learning and development.
Shows respect and compassion for others.
Values the open exchange of ideas and exhibits innovation in daily work and special projects.

Responsibilities

Conduct outreach to eligible students through presentations, classroom visits, and campus/community engagement.
Assist with recruitment campaigns, promotional materials, and information sessions.
Support partnerships with schools, community organizations, and campus departments to identify prospective participants.
Guide students through the TRIO intake process, including eligibility verification and application completion.
Ensure accurate data entry into student tracking systems.
Assist with planning and facilitating TRIO events, workshops, and campus activities.
Provide proactive communication to remind students about appointments, workshops, and program requirements.
Track student participation and follow up with those at risk of disengagement.
Coordinate logistics for campus events, enrichment activities, and college visits.
Assist with travel arrangements, permission forms, scheduling, and vendor communication.
Support on-site supervision of trips and activities.
Maintain organized participant files and assist with recordkeeping for compliance.
Provide front-line support to students in the TRIO office, answering questions and connecting them to appropriate staff.
Contribute to marketing, social media, and communication strategies to highlight TRIO opportunities.
Other duties as assigned.