ASCEND Program Coordinator

About the role

The ASCEND Program at Daemen University is seeking a compassionate, organized, and student-centered Part-Time Program Coordinator to support its Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

This innovative program offers students the opportunity to audit university courses, participate in campus life, and develop career readiness and independent living skills in a supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate student schedules, course audit plans, and academic modifications in collaboration with faculty and supports provided through Accessibility Services.
• Support the program within the campus community, including academic departments and student life.
• Manage program resources, such as expenses and materials.
• Provide individualized support and planning for students.
• Cookordinate access to academic supports such as assistive technology and tutoring.
• Maintain student progress and maintain accurate documentation and reports.
• Lead student workshops on soft skills, job readiness, independent living, and campus navigation.
• Support students iCAP (Career Action Plan) activities, workshops, and portfolio development.
• Coordinate job-shadowing, internships, and on-campus work experiences that align with student goals.
• Maintain communication with local businesses and community organizations to expand and support employment opportunities.
• Facilitate ongoing communication among students, peer mentors, families, and campus community.
• Assist with planning and participate in program events, orientation, outreach, and recruitment activities.
• Represent the program at community events and campus-wide initiatives.
• Oversee, train, and support peer mentors and interns who work alongside ASCEND students.
• Assist in supporting and providing resources to faculty, staff, and mentors on inclusive education practices.
• Stay current with emerging research and best practices in the field of inclusive postsecondary education.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Disability Studies, Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in special education and/or related agency settings, including but not limited to teaching, counseling, program coordination, administration within K-12 or postsecondary education institutions.
• Strong communication, organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team with diverse groups of people.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• The ability to advocate for inclusive practices, promote awareness of disability issues, and build community support is critical.
• Prior experience in higher education, school-based, or postsecondary transition programs is preferred.
• Knowledge of person-centered planning, universal design for learning (UDL), or vocational rehabilitation services is preferred.