Assistant Director Student Support Services Program

Overview Western Connecticut State University is pleased to announce applications are being accepted for Assistant Director – Student Support Services Program in our Pre-Collegiate & Access Services department. WCSU is committed to enhancing our diverse university community by actively encouraging people with disabilities, members of LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities, veterans, and women to apply. We take pride in our pluralistic community and continue to seek excellence through diversity and inclusion. WCSU is honored to be awarded the federal designation as a Hispanic serving institution (HSI). This accomplishment marks a pivotal moment in our progress toward fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our campus community. WCSU’s Pre-Collegiate & Access Services department oversees programs that are designed to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their academic pursuits and open doors to higher education. Additional information is available at Information on the University may be found at Position Summary The Assistant Director assists the Director of Pre-Collegiate & Access Services with the design, management, and implementation of the federally funded Student Support Services program. Supports first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities in their academic persistence, retention, and graduation. Serves as a resource to programs that serve special student populations and acts as a liaison between SSS, university departments, and external agencies. This position will supervise part-time University Assistants & student employees. This position is funded through a five-year grant cycle. Long-term continuation of this position is contingent upon WCSU receiving additional funding from the U.S. Department of Education. Position Responsibilities Develops and implements retention programs for the Student Support Services Program participants. Conducts ongoing evaluations of program activities, including retention, academic standing, and graduation of program participants. Oversees day-to-day supervision of all Student Support Services Program activities, including academic year and summer components. Assists in hiring, trains, and supervises Student Success Peer Coaches and other staff for the Student Support Services Program activities. Assists the Director of Pre-Collegiate & Access Services with planning, implementation, and supervision of Student Support Services Program summer bridge and academic year components. Communicates and interacts with Student Support Services Program staff in systematic planning and implementation of program components. Provides appropriate services to students, in conjunction with university departments, collaborative organizations, and external agencies. Completes annual state, federal, and institutional performance and funding continuation reports. Assists the Director of Pre-Collegiate & Access Services in the preparation and management of the Student Support Services Program annual budget. Develops and coordinates an alumni network for Student Support Services Program participants. Organizes and facilitates workshops on study skills, financial literacy, career exploration, and personal development. Performs other duties and responsibilities related to those enumerated above which do not alter the basic level and responsibilities of the position. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree in Education, Counseling, Higher Education Administration, or related field is preferred. Three (3) years working with similar populations (first-generation, low-income, students with disabilities). Three (3) years of relevant experience in higher education, including advising, career counseling, teaching, or personal counseling. Experience with or participation in a Student Support Services Program or similar TRIO program preferred. Proven ability to collaborate across university departments and external agencies. Experience with the Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, Outlook & Teams) and Google Chrome and/or Microsoft Edge. Salary & Benefits The hiring salary range is $69,669 - $92,356 and is commensurate upon candidates' experience. WCSU offers a comprehensive benefits package. Additional information on benefits can be found at All employment, if offered, is contingent upon proof of citizenship or employability under the requirement of the Immigration and Control Act (IRCA) and the successful passing of a background check. WCSU is committed to providing a safe campus community. Background investigations include reference checks, employment verifications, and a criminal history record check. Application Process Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, which includes the names and contact information for three (3) professional references and a resume. Questions may be directed to – please reference Assistant Director SSS in subject line. To apply Application materials must be submitted no later than Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Western is an AAE Equal Opportunity Educator/Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr