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Why Join the University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater?
Empowering Futures Through Inclusive Education – The University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater (UWW) stands as a beacon of affordable, high‑impact higher education in the heart of the Midwest. With a vibrant community of over 11,000 students, a dedicated faculty and staff of 1,300, and a legacy of excellence in business, education, and athletics, UWW is committed to the success of every learner, especially first‑generation, economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities. The Rock County Campus in Janesville adds a dynamic urban‑rural blend, offering students direct access to industry partners, cultural amenities, and natural recreation. As a Director of Student Support Services & Learning Support Center, you will lead a cornerstone program that translates the university’s mission into tangible outcomes for our most resilient scholars.
Position Overview
The Director serves as the strategic and operational leader of the federal TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program and the Learning Support Center (LSC) on the Rock County Campus. Reporting to both the Dean of the College of Integrated Studies and the Executive Director of TRIO & Scholarship/Grant Programs, you will supervise a team of eight full‑time staff members and a cohort of student workers, manage substantial federal and state grant portfolios, and shape policies that drive academic persistence and graduation for high‑impact students.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Supervision: Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate staff and student employees; conduct annual performance reviews; foster a collaborative, high‑performing team culture.
- Fiscal Stewardship: Develop, monitor, and report on grant and state budgets; oversee scholarship disbursement in partnership with the Financial Aid Office; ensure compliance with federal, state, and university financial regulations.
- Program Design & Implementation: Create and refine curricular and enrichment activities, including for‑credit courses, academic coaching, and tutoring collaborations; align initiatives with SSS strategic goals and federal requirements.
- Data Management & Reporting: Maintain accurate student service data, eligibility documentation, and outcome metrics; prepare and submit all required reports to the U.S. Department of Education, UW System, and internal stakeholders.
- Strategic Planning: Set annual recruitment targets, develop evaluation frameworks, and articulate programmatic objectives that support the broader university mission.
- Community & Campus Partnerships: Coordinate with the Main Campus Tutoring Center, campus‑wide High‑Impact Practices (HIPs), and external community organizations to expand support networks for students.
- Advocacy & Representation: Serve as the department’s ambassador at university, system, and community events; participate in governance committees, task forces, and professional conferences.
- Operational Flexibility: Adjust work schedule for occasional evenings, weekends, and travel to meet program delivery and event obligations.
Essential Qualifications
Candidates must demonstrate a blend of academic, administrative, and leadership experience that equips them to excel in a complex, federally funded environment.
- Education: A master's degree in Higher Education, Educational Administration, Student Affairs, or a closely related field.
- Professional Experience: Minimum of five years in higher‑education administration or teaching, with at least three years directly supporting first‑generation, low‑income, or disabled student populations.
- Budget Management: Proven ability to develop, administer, and report on multi‑year grant and state budgets.
- Supervisory Skills: Demonstrated experience overseeing a team of professionals and student workers, including hiring, training, and performance evaluation.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with TRIO SSS program guidelines, federal reporting requirements, and higher‑education compliance standards.
Preferred Qualifications & Desirable Experience
- Doctorate in Educational Administration, Policy, or a related discipline.
- Five or more years of experience providing academic advising or counseling in a post‑secondary setting.
- Track record of successful grant writing and securing external funding.
- Experience managing tutoring or learning support services, preferably within a multi‑campus system.
- Background in conducting program evaluations and applying data‑driven decision‑making.
- Personal experience that mirrors the challenges of the student populations served, fostering authentic empathy and advocacy.
Core Skills & Competencies
- Exceptional Communication: Ability to convey complex policy and program information clearly to diverse audiences, both in writing and orally.
- Leadership Agility: Skilled at guiding teams through tight timelines, shifting priorities, and resource constraints while maintaining morale.
- Analytical Insight: Strong quantitative and qualitative research abilities for program assessment and continuous improvement.
- Interpersonal Acumen: High emotional intelligence; respectful engagement with students, faculty, staff, and community partners from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Integrity & Discretion: Sound judgment in handling confidential student records and sensitive fiscal information.
- Tech‑Savvy: Proficiency with student information systems, data‑visualization tools, and collaborative platforms (e.g., Microsoft 365, Canvas, Zoom).
- Strategic Vision: Ability to align program goals with institutional priorities, fostering long‑term sustainability and impact.
Career Growth & Professional Development
UWW invests in the long‑term success of its leaders. As Director, you will have access to:
- Leadership training programs through the UW System’s Center for Academic Affairs.
- Funding for conference attendance, professional certifications, and graduate coursework.
- Mentoring relationships with senior university administrators and external higher‑education thought leaders.
- Opportunities to influence campus‑wide policy development and statewide education initiatives.
- A clear pathway to senior administrative roles such as Associate Dean, Vice Provost, or Executive Director of Student Success.
Work Environment & Culture
The Rock County Campus offers a hybrid work model that blends the flexibility of remote work with the collaborative energy of on‑site interaction. Our community values:
- Inclusivity: A campus climate where diversity of thought, background, and identity is celebrated and leveraged for innovation.
- Collaboration: Cross‑departmental teams that share expertise to solve complex student success challenges.
- Well‑Being: Access to wellness programs, flexible scheduling, and supportive leadership that prioritizes work‑life balance.
- Community Engagement: Strong ties to local businesses, non‑profits, and government agencies that enrich student learning experiences.
Compensation, Benefits, & Perks
UWW offers a competitive salary range of $62,500 – $65,000, commensurate with experience and education, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and university holidays.
- Professional development funds and tuition assistance for advanced degrees.
- Employee assistance programs, wellness resources, and on‑site fitness facilities.
- Access to campus amenities such as libraries, recreation centers, and cultural events.
Application Process & Timeline
Applications are accepted until November 16, 2023. To be considered, submit a complete package through the university’s online portal, including:
- A tailored cover letter outlining your vision for student support services.
- An up‑to‑date resume highlighting relevant leadership and grant‑management experience.
- Contact information for three professional references.
- Official transcripts (photocopies acceptable for the initial review).
After the deadline, the search committee will conduct a thorough review, schedule interviews, and seek input from faculty, staff, and student stakeholders. Candidates may be asked to provide a brief presentation on a strategic initiative they would prioritize in the first year of service.
Equal Opportunity & Inclusion Commitment
The University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages applications from women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and members of other historically under‑represented groups. The university complies with Wisconsin Statute 19.36 regarding confidentiality of applicant identity and conducts comprehensive background checks consistent with state and system policies.
Join Us in Transforming Lives
If you are a visionary leader with a passion for closing equity gaps, fostering academic resilience, and building high‑impact programs, we invite you to bring your expertise to UWW’s thriving community. Your leadership will directly influence the trajectories of students who embody the next generation of innovators, educators, and leaders.
Take the Next Step
Click the link below to submit your application and begin a rewarding journey with the University of Wisconsin‑Whitewater. We look forward to learning how you will champion student success and advance our shared mission.
Apply Now – Director of Student Support Services & Learning Support Center
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Apply Now