Grad Assistant - African American Academic Network

About The University Of Illinois Chicago

UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

Position Summary

The African American Academic Network (AAAN) at the University of Illinois Chicago seeks a motivated and organized Graduate Assistant to support the planning, implementation, and assessment of programs and initiatives that promote student engagement, academic success, leadership development, and community building. The Graduate Assistant will collaborate with AAAN staff to provide programmatic, administrative, and operational support while contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment for students.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of AAAN programs, workshops, events, and special initiatives.
• Assist with recruitment initiatives by attending recruitment events, conducting outreach to prospective students, maintaining communication with applicants, and supporting enrollment efforts.
• Provide logistical support for in-person and virtual events, including room setup, registration, materials preparation, and participant engagement.
• Assist with day-to-day program operations and administrative functions.
• Assist with student outreach and communication through email, newsletters, and social media platforms.
• Maintain accurate records, attendance data, and program documentation.
• Support the collection and organization of assessment data and assist with reporting on program outcomes.
• Respond to student inquiries and connect students with appropriate campus resources.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned that support the mission and goals of the AAAN Program.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Admission to and good academic standing in a graduate degree program at the University of Illinois Chicago.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace applications.
• Demonstrated commitment to student success, equity, and inclusive excellence.
• Travel up to 20% may be required to support recruitment and programming needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience planning or coordinating programs and events.
• Experience with recruitment, outreach or sales.
• Experience working with diverse student populations in higher education.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and communication strategies.
• Experience with data collection, assessment, or student engagement initiatives.