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GWU Director of First-Year Programs

Date Posted: November 21, 2022
Gardner-Webb University
Shelby, NC
Category: Education
Job Type: Full-Time

Gardner-Webb University

Company Description

Gardner-Webb University is a coeducational, residential, private Christian institution with a strong emphasis in the Liberal Arts, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs to approximately 3,500 students.

Job Description

Director of First-Year Programs

The Student Success Division of Gardner-Webb University is seeking applicants for the position of Director of First-Year Programs. This position provides vision, strategic direction, and accountability for developing the freshman program and implementing high-impact practices and services that support first-year students’ academic transition, success, and retention.   This position is responsible for building and strengthening relationships across university departments and programs to provide a comprehensive first-year experience for students that aligns with the university’s mission and goals.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Directs the University 111 courses
    • Recruits instructors and peer leaders
    • Plans and directs training and professional development related to University 111 for staff, instructors, and peer leaders
    • Works with the Dean of Student Success and faculty in continuously reviewing the curriculum and instructional methods of this course
    • Designs new course curriculum as needed and coordinates course alignment to the University General Education Standards
    • Plans and directs activities within the UNIV 111 curriculum that will enhance a comprehensive educational experience and promote student success
    • Teaches two sections of University 111 in the course of an academic year
  • Works with the Student Success Division and with other faculty and staff in efforts to promote retention and persistence toward graduation
  • Stays informed of professional standards and current trends within First-Year Programs
  • Coordinates and chairs the work of the First-Year Committee
  • Conducts annual program evaluation and annual evaluation on course student learning outcomes
  • Facilitates the preparation and dissemination of materials promoting first-year programs and activities
  • Requires some evening and weekend hours to assist with first-year and orientation events
  • Performs duties related to the program as assigned by the Dean of Student Success

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s degree in an academic field from an accredited institution
  • Knowledge of current research, theory, and best practices of first-year student experience and student retention programs
  • Experience working with students in a college or university setting
  • Experience teaching in a higher education setting
  • Demonstrated evidence of a team-oriented, professional mindset with the experience and ability to be a creative problem solver
  • Experience in Blackboard and Microsoft Office technologies
  • Demonstrated evidence in presentation and communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and flexibility

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  • Knowledge of assessment strategies to rate, analyze and improve performance
  • Ability to collaborate with various university departments and external partners to support a diverse student population
  • Ability to multi-task and show attention to detail in a fast-paced professional environment
  • Excellence in verbal and written skills
  • Ability to write and interpret reports based on qualitative and quantitative data analysis
  • Ability to recruit, hire, train, schedule, and manage full-time, part-time, and temporary employees

APPLICATION:

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.  Candidates should complete the application using the link below and include a letter of interest, current vita, and transcripts with their submission.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Apply Online Here!

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