Job Summary: 

The Student Success Specialist (SSS) for First Generation students provides holistic student support for first generation students at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (SMUMN). As a member of the First Generation Initiative team (FGI), the SSS is responsible for community  building, planning events / workshops, and one-on-one student support. Reporting to the Director of FGI, the SSS will play a crucial role in supporting both the FGI scholars and any/all students who identify as “first generation”. As a member of the Student Success Center (SSC), the ideal candidate for this position will be collaborative, inclusive, and deeply passionate about mission-based institutions.

FGI was established in 2010 with the aim of ensuring academic success for first-generation college students, those who are the first in their family to attend a postsecondary institution. This mission-driven initiative extends beyond merely facilitating access to college to include an emphasis on retention of first-generation students in their effort to complete their college degree.

The program caters to students at two key stages in their educational journey: high school and college. High school students from partner schools can participate in the Countdown to College (C2C), an annual summer program designed to enhance academic skills essential for college readiness. Additionally, the FGI scholarship provides full tuition funding for selected first-generation students who enroll at SMUMN, providing access to comprehensive academic, social, and cultural support.

Salary range: $19.23 - $21.63

Job Responsibilities: 

1. Maintain caseload of approximately 50 FGI scholars;
1. Meet with students as needed 
2. Serve on the team planning C2C
3. Represent FGI and Countdown 2 College in partner school communications and relationship building 
4. Supervise one Countdown to College student worker during the academic year, and supervise a team of 16 C2C Counselors during camp, which includes recruitment, training, and supervision. 
5. Serve as on call, professional staff during Countdown to College (typically 2 weeks in July) 
6. Serve as an advisor in the Academic Success Program (ASP), hosted by the Office of Advising (OA) for students on academic probation
7. Coordinate logistics and promotion for FGI-sponsored events and activities.
1. Plan events specifically aimed at the interests and needs of first-generation scholars, such community building and networking nights.
8. Provide resources, guidance, and accountability for FGI students;
1. Monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed to meet student needs.
9. Manage resources for FGI students, including the Clothing Closet, Snack Shelf, and School Supplies Cabinet:
1. Manage inventory and distribution of resources to ensure availability for students in need;
2. Establish protocols for access and replenishment of resources.
10. Assist the Director with providing holistic support for FGI 
11.  Regularly solicit feedback from first-generation scholars to ensure their needs are being met and adjust initiatives accordingly.
12. Advocate for FGI scholar needs throughout SMUMN
13. Ensure events are accessible and inclusive, considering transportation, scheduling, and interests.
14. Foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where all students feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns.
15. Other duties as assigned 

Essential Skills and Functions: 

• Respect and understanding of diverse student populations
• Awareness of intersectionality within identities
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated organizational and project management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Must be able to work evenings and weekends, as needed
• Empathetic and helpful characteristics are necessary

Experience and Education Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 1-3 years experience in education preferred
• Spanish-speaking preferred

Apply online at https://www.smumn.edu/about/offices-services/human-resources/employment-opportunities/ and include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota believes inclusion and human dignity contributes to a robust academic and work environment and is critical to achieving the University's mission in an increasingly diverse society. Individuals with expertise and diverse skills from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. The successful candidate must support, respect, and advance the mission of Saint Mary's University as a Lasallian Catholic institution.

Saint Mary’s offers a comprehensive benefit package including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, flexible spending, retirement pension plan, and both undergraduate and graduate tuition remission plans.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.