Retention Specialist

About the role

The Division of Student Success is comprised of several offices, people, and programs working together to foster a holistic collegiate experience at Montana State University. We encompass every facet of the student experience. Each unit in the division supports students in their academic goals and personal journeys while they work to become graduates of Montana State University. In support of the Montana State University mission, the mission of Student Success is to enhance the learning environment of the University; support students in the attainment of their educational objectives; foster in students a sense of responsibility, self-directedness, community, and a positive identity with Montana State University. Access and Success is dedicated to supporting students in their journey of personal and academic growth by providing opportunities for learning, leadership development, dialogue, and self-reflection. We aim to equip students with the tools they need to navigate challenges, engage with diverse perspectives, and lead with purpose in their communities. We work closely with students, faculty, staff, parents, student-focused programs, and other university partners to foster a sense of purpose and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Develop an intervention strategy for at-risk students or those with a low career maturity profile based on the evidence from the student intake, BCCSE, Strong Interest Inventory, Student Engagement, class attendance, course outcomes, etc. Then using this information to successfully implement the terms and requirements of the US Department of Education TRIO SSS grant submitted by MSU.
• Using a case management model, develop, implement, and maintain the MSU Academic Success & Career Plan for each of the eligible TRIO SSS student scholars.
• Work with various constituents (academic advisors, faculty, career coaches, financial coaches, success advisors, health promotions, learning strategist, activities, and engagement, etc.) to promote student success and individual professional development.
• Maintain accurate records and appropriate data management practices to ensure evidence of effort and outcomes are properly recorded to demonstrate grant outcomes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in education, communication, sociology, psychology, or related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education;
• Demonstrated professional experience in higher education, working with underserved students in need of academic support, socialization to a campus environment, and/or career/professional coaching;
• Excellent organizational and communication skills;
• Demonstrated excellence in program development, implementation, and delivery assessment;
• Demonstrated competence in information systems (e.g. word processing, excel, access, PowerPoint);

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of MSU policies and procedures;
• Experience with SCT Banner system and web-based reports (including the student module);
• Knowledge of US Department of Education TRiO SSS grant guidelines.

Qualifications

• The successful candidate will have the opportunity to regularly exercise independent authority, judgment, and discretion to improve student retention on campus, and is required to understand and work within a strategic retention framework, but will have the autonomy to make decisions with the intention of improving student success to ensure US Department of Education TRIO SSS grant outcomes are met.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Possess strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Understand and practice confidentiality of records and information.
• Demonstrate self-motivation and ability to follow through on tasks and projects to completion.
• Have ability to learn MSU policies, procedures, and systems for student data tracking.
• Have the ability to establish and maintain productive and positive working relations with coworkers, faculty, students, supervisors, and the public.
• Represent TRiO SSS and its programs in a professional and courteous manner.

Special Requirements/Additional Information

This position is contingent upon continued grant funding. Must be able to work a flexible schedule which may include days, nights, and occasional weekends.