About this role
Associate Director for Abilene Christian University’s Talent Search/TRIO program. This role oversees program operations, partnerships, student support, grant compliance, and reporting to advance pre-college access for income-eligible students and ensure alignment with US Department of Education requirements.
Manage key partnerships with Talent Search target schools, local service agencies, partners, and area postsecondary institutions. Coordinate student selection; assist enrolled students with completing high school and enrolling in postsecondary programs; supervise, evaluate, and document needs assessments; document eligibility per federal guidelines and enter into the program. Mentor high school seniors on postsecondary and financial aid applications; follow up with graduates; prepare annual senior confirmation reports; track 6-year postsecondary enrollment per grant guidelines; provide statistical data for grant writing and review grant objectives. Serve as Assistant Director for at least 2 target schools; travel to meet with students to provide academic advisement and information on graduation, postsecondary education, financial aid, careers, and curriculum planning; monitor regional grant objectives. Serve on committees and collaborate with education institutions and professional organizations; participate in college committees and other duties as assigned. Implement and monitor grant Priorities each cycle; develop activities/events to meet grant requirements (e.g., volunteer events, food drives). Review, adapt, and present TS college access curriculum to participants and school administration for career exploration, goal setting, planning, and postsecondary preparation. Basic responsibilities include monitoring academic progress (GPA, test scores), developing IDPs within 60 days, and obtaining grade reports, transcripts, and test scores from Abilene ISD staff. Conduct advising sessions with participants and parents; document contacts and monitor progress toward grant objectives and compliance. Recruit eligible students; coordinate recruiting at Abilene ISD campuses; develop media to enhance recruiting/retention; participate in recruitment, application, interviewing, and selection processes. Schedule interviews, secure classrooms and transportation, and maintain calendars for academic and summer components. Collaborate on curriculum, calendars, session dates, and times; assist with program activities and summer advising; monitor federal compliance; manage the student support budget; ensure accuracy of program database entries and the Annual Performance Report. Assist the Director in interpreting/implementing US DOE regulations; ensure internal accountability and compliance.
Familiarity with Texas high school requirements for course credits and graduation. Ability to work with low-income, first-generation, and ethnically diverse student populations with sensitivity. Strong collaboration, program management, and data reporting skills; willingness to travel to target schools and engage with multiple stakeholders. Ability to adapt curricula and activities to grant priorities and program needs.
Experience with TRIO/Talent Search programs and federal grant reporting. Experience in college access counseling, academic advisement, and classroom coordination.
Salary and benefits information are not provided in the posting.
Abilene Christian University is affiliated with the Church of Christ; the role requires professing Christian beliefs and alignment with the university’s mission.
Employment type: full-time; location: Abilene, TX; country: United States.