Hiring Salary Range: $86,000-$90,000 DOQ

Priority Application Deadline: Tuesday, May 28, 2024

The inaugural director will be responsible for providing leadership, initiative, and oversight for all aspects of the center's operations. This individual will play a critical role in developing and implementing programs and services aimed at supporting the academic, personal, and professional success of FG students. The director will work to actively build and maintain collaborative relationships with campus partners that foster student success for FG students and underserved students across campus.

This position is part of the Student Success team within the Office of Undergraduate Education (), a unit within the Office of the. The director reports to Dr. LeeAnn Melin, Associate Vice Provost for Student Success.

Leadership and Management of the FG center (70%):

• In consultation with and guidance from key stakeholders, develop and implement a new FG success center that demonstrates measurable gains in student retention, graduation, sense of belonging, and overall success for FG students.
• Design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based programs and data-driven initiatives that promote FG student retention and success.
• Provide retention outreach and support for students in alignment with OUE retention strategies. This includes active use of data dashboards and the APLUS advising system to aid in communication to students, their advisors, and the wider campus community.
• Coordinate effective communications for the center and direct support to FG students.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise 2-3 professional staff and student employees to ensure the effective delivery of services and programs.
• Collect and analyze data on student outcomes and program effectiveness to inform decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.

Collaboration and Advocacy (20%):

• Develop, sustain, and nurture collaborative partnerships with admissions, undergraduate colleges, student success units, student affairs, and the First-Generation Institute to support and retain FG students.
• Co-lead the First-Generation Center Advisory Committee, and actively partner with the First-Generation Institute.
• Provide central coordination and programming for First-Gen Celebration Week in partnership with key units and student groups.
• Serve as a champion and advocate for the FG student experience and help to promote a campus culture of inclusivity and equity.
• Serve on University-wide committees and work groups relating to student success and targeted retention efforts specifically aimed at assisting first-generation, low-income, and/or students of color.

Professional Development and Contributions (10%):

• Maintain current knowledge in the field of student development, student success, and equity and inclusion issues/programming through professional development opportunities and scholarly pursuits.
• Research and implement best practices.
• Participate in Office of Undergraduate Education events, meetings, and initiatives.
• Serve on university-wide committees and work groups as requested, assigned, or initiated.

**Work Environment: This position is expected to work on campus in the FG center located in Appleby Hall on the Twin Cities East Bank. Remote work days may be available as the position/center evolves.

**Funding for the center is secured for 3 years. Recurring funds beyond 3 years will be based on the center's demonstrated success.

• Master's degree in education, counseling, student affairs, or a related field with a minimum of 6 years of professional full-time, relevant work experience in college student development, higher education or closely related field, or BA/BS degree with a minimum of 8 years professional full-time, relevant ,work experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with first-generation college students and understanding of the challenges they may face.
• Strong program development skills and proven ability to initiate, lead, and implement strategic services, programs and initiatives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience building collaborative relationships to advance shared goals and promote student success.
• Proven skills in creating and contributing to high-performing teams and work climates where all are respected and valued, feel a sense of belonging, and can contribute to their full potential.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuing education and skill development focused on racial and social justice.

• Previous experience providing supervision and/or unit leadership in a college-level student services department.
• Ability to develop and execute services and programs that center and affirm first-generation college students, students of color, students from poor and working-class backgrounds, students with disabilities, LGBTQIA students, as well as students from other historically underserved groups.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Possession of a "students first" philosophy that supports and believes in the potential of all students.

The University of Minnesota is committed to the success of all students, specifically addressing the opportunity gaps that exist for students from historically underserved backgrounds. As part of that commitment, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is launching a new center designed to promote the success of First-Generation (FG) undergraduate students. The vision for the FG center (name TBD) is to provide holistic support to FG students as they transition and progress through their college experience, with a focus on advancing equitable outcomes relating to retention, graduation, and sense of belonging. With 25% of UMTC undergraduate students identifying as first-generation college students, the center will work closely with key campus partners to provide coordinated and complimentary services and support that promote FG student success.

The center is part of the to enhance the experience of FG students. The Twin Cities campus is home to the, which focuses on FG research, faculty and staff development, and disseminating evidence-based practices. Together, these two units provide a comprehensive model that addresses structural barriers while providing just-in-time direct support for FG students.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online through the University's employment website (http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/employment/). In addition to completing the online application, please submit the following materials:

* A cover letter that details your qualifications and your interest in the position

* Your current resume

* A list of three professional references

To request accommodations during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).