Specialist, Graduate Student Advising and Retention, Teacher Education

Specialist, Graduate Student Advising and Retention, Teacher Education

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a student-centered, applied-research institution committed to providing its students with a transformative academic and social experience and to elevating its surrounding communities. Founded in 1906, WKU is the third largest public four-year institution in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with approximately 16,293 students and nearly 2,612 faculty and staff employees.

Western Kentucky University is committed to empowering its campus community. At the heart of our mission, we seek to provide holistic education and employment experiences that prepare students, faculty, and staff to become effective scholars, contributors, and leaders in our ever-evolving communities.

Located 65 miles north of Nashville, TN, and just over 100 miles south of Louisville, KY, WKU's main campus is in Bowling Green, KY - a city with approximately 70,000 residents. Our population is ethnically diverse, with more than 85 languages spoken in and around Bowling Green, and people from 35 nationalities call our community home.

Western Kentucky University seeks to attract talented faculty and staff who are inspired individually to contribute to WKU's strategic plans and ongoing success. We offer comprehensive wellness and health benefits to employees and their families, including domestic partners and other qualified dependents and take pride in providing a workplace culture that supports balancing the responsibilities of work and family life. Paid-time off for holidays, vacation and sick leave, and a tuition discount program for employees and dependents are also provided.

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The School of Teacher Education (STE) within the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences is seeking applications for the position of Specialist for Graduate Student Advising and Retention. The Specialist is responsible for supporting graduate students and the graduate programs within STE. This position reports to the Director of the School of Teacher Education.

Duties include:

• Student Services and Support
  • Serve as the first point of contact for prospective and current graduate students
  • Advise prospective students through the admissions process, answering questions about program requirements, certification options, and application procedures
  • Monitor student progress and communicate with at risk students to provide support and resources
  • Address student concerns and questions regarding WKU and Graduate School policies, procedures, registration, and academic requirements
  • Maintain regular communication with online students to foster engagement and connection to the college
  • Collaborate with the Graduate School and Office of Professional Educator Services to createa streamlined pathway to graduation and teacher certification
• Recruitment and Marketing Services
  • Assist with recruitment initiatives and marketing efforts for graduate programs in the School of Teacher Education
  • Represent the programs at virtual recruitment events, information sessions, and webinars
  • Coordinate with the admissions office to analyze enrollment trends, track application pipelines, and follow up with prospective students
• Program Administration
  • Assist with graduate processes and new initiatives within the School of Teacher Education
  • Maintain graduate records
  • Support alternate certification options including CEO and Proficiency candidates
  • Support the STE Director and Assistant Director as needed for graduate programming
• Other duties as assigned

Working Conditions:

• This is NOT a remote position
• Standard working hours from 8:00-4:30pm
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for events or student support
• May require periodic travel for conferences or recruitment events

Knowledge and Skills Considered Essential for Success

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to FERPA regulations

• Master's Degree

Kentucky state law requires all public institutions of postsecondary education to conduct pre-employment criminal background checks to determine suitability for employment.

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is committed to a policy and practice of providing equal employment…