Director, University College

Director Of University College

The Director of University College is a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic direction, operational management, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive suite of academic support services aimed at enhancing student success across the university. The Director will foster an atmosphere of trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to support the success and achievement of students. University College will provide a supportive academic home for all undergraduate students.

Reporting to the Provost, the Director will lead the integration of academic advising, career development, student employment, and student success initiatives, positioning University College as a central hub that connects students with resources, academic opportunities, and career pathways from their first day on campus through to graduation. The Director of University College is a visionary leader committed to creating a student-centered, inclusive environment that fosters student success, persistence, and achievement across students from a wide variety of backgrounds. In a student-oriented environment, the Director will oversee and assess the performance of administrators and supervisors managing the administration and delivery of student support services.

To enhance student success, University College will serve as a gateway into the university, an academic home for pre-majors, and a hub for academic support. Academic advisors are centralized in University College, organized into clusters or "meta-majors" that share foundational gateway courses, and will be supported by trained peer advisors. Career Services professionals will support each advising cluster to ensure that career planning and development is woven through the entire undergraduate student experience, connecting all majors with opportunities to acquire transferable career-relevant skills through minors, certificates, and alternative credentials.

Specific areas aligned under University College are as follows :

• First Year Experience (Orientation, First Year Seminars, Learning Communities)
• Academic Advising and Career Development / Planning
• Student Employment (including on-campus and community-based work)
• TRIO Programs
• UNIV (University Success) course management
• Peer Mentoring and Supplemental Instruction future priority
• Tutoring and Coaching Services
• Student Success Council
• University College Faculty (engaged in First Year Experience, experiential learning, and oversight for first year seminar curricula) - future priority

The Director will be responsible for a range of key duties and essential objectives, which include :

Leadership and Strategic Vision : The Director will provide overall leadership for University College, establishing a clear and compelling vision for its role in advancing the academic and career success of undergraduate students. The Director will ensure that the College aligns with the university's broader mission, goals, and strategic initiatives, while adapting to the evolving needs of students. This includes championing a collaborative, student-centered approach to education and student support services that maximize access, engagement, and success.

Program Oversight and Integration : University College encompasses a diverse set of programs designed to support students from various backgrounds and academic disciplines. The Director will oversee the coordination of the following key areas :

Required Qualifications :

Education : Master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, or a related field.

Experience : Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education, with at least 3 years in a senior role overseeing student services, academic advising, or student success programs. Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams and driving institutional initiatives related to student success, retention, and career readiness. Experience in designing and implementing programs that support first-generation, underrepresented, and diverse student populations.

Skills and Abilities : Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Strong understanding of academic advising, career development, student retention strategies, and best practices in student success programming. Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to build a supportive student experience. Strong data analysis and decision-making skills, with experience using data to assess program effectiveness and student outcomes. Expertise in initiatives that promote access and success for underrepresented students. Knowledge of contemporary trends in higher education, including the integration of career development and experiential learning into the academic experience.

Desired Qualifications :

Education : PhD / EdD in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, or