Assistant to the Dean for Undergraduate Affairs

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant to the Dean for Undergraduate Affairs.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States

Division College of Arts and Sciences

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Pay Grade

E09

Posting Close Date Open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please apply through the online job portal and include a resume, three references, and a cover letter that addresses how your background and experience align with the minimum and preferred qualifications as well as key skills and abilities. Review of applications will begin July 1, 2024.

Job Summary

The Assistant to the Dean for Undergraduate Affairs, provides support to the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, College of Arts and Sciences, in matters related to undergraduate students. As a member of the Dean’s administrative team, this staff member helps manage the implementation of student-success programs and workflows; ensures school compliance with College and University academic policies and procedures; interacts with students, faculty, and staff to resolve problems as they arise; and works on other special projects. The Assistant to the Dean for Undergraduate Affairs must develop collaborative relationships with staff across campus and faculty within the College to meet these goals. The incumbent will be dedicated to continuous improvement and demonstrate an eagerness to learn new skills, stay current on new policies, be well-versed in undergraduate requirements, and grow professionally through training and development opportunities.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assists in developing, coordinating, and implementing College strategic initiatives related to retention, persistence, and student success

• Implements programs and initiatives, responds to questions, and effectively resolves problems though communication and meetings with students, faculty, and staff as appropriate

• Manages processes and workflows related to academic and enrollment requests, petitions, and appeals in coordination with the Dean and Associate Dean

• Collects, analyzes, and reports on data related to student success and enrollment to inform College decision-making; makes recommendations to the Associate Dean and School Directors based on findings

• Collaborates with other Dean’s administration team members to carry out work related to undergraduate curriculums, degree plans, degree progress reports, bulletins, and graduation requirements, including consultation on proposed degree/minor plans in accordance with guidelines for degree progress

• Facilitates College and school compliance with academic policies and procedures; Develops, coordinates, and implements College strategic initiatives related to retention, persistence, and student success

• Maintains and communicates expert knowledge on policies, procedures, requirements, and student resources throughout the University, including Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and beyond

• Serves as college liaison between schools and other University offices on activities and initiatives related to student success and enrollment

• Performs other duties as assigned.

  Minimum Qualifications:

  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with 3 years of experience in higher education or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Excellent communication skills (oral and written).

  Preferred Qualifications:

  Master’s degree from an accredited college or university and Prior experience in higher education with student academic support; Knowledge of research and best practices on retention, persistence, and student success of diverse student populations; Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion of underrepresented groups; Experience and proficiency with data analysis, program evaluation and assessment, and use of student information systems (e.g., PeopleSoft).

  Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

  Communication and Collaboration:

• Exceptional communication skills, both oral and written;

• Excellent interpersonal, diplomatic, and negotiation skills, including an openness to exchange of ideas and consideration of different perspectives;

• Ability to work effectively as a team member and to develop collaborative and productive professional relationships in pursuit of shared goals.

  Work management:

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective time management;

• Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills;

• Ability to identify issues and work independently.

  Professional knowledge and application:

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs;

• Knowledge of research and best practices relevant to promoting retention, persistence, and equity in higher education;

• Commitment to promoting systemic improvements in educational equity and inclusion for diverse student populations ;

  Assessment and accountability:

• Commitment to continuous improvement as a professional, including a willingness to constructively communicate and be receptive to feedback for improvement;

• Adaptability and ability to exercise initiative and approach tasks strategically to enhance individual effectiveness and improve organizational performance;

• Orientation for growth through professional networks and adoption of new models, procedures, and work methods to meet the needs of a diverse student body, staff, and faculty and to optimize partnerships with offices across the university.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.