Director for Graduate Student Success and Development

Duke University

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools.

With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations that strengthen our academic community. As the Director for Graduate Student Success and Development, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the graduate student experience from recruitment through degree completion.

As a strategic leader within Graduate Student Affairs, you will develop and implement innovative programs that enhance the graduate student experience while supporting institutional goals related to recruitment, retention, engagement, and student development.

• Develop and execute comprehensive graduate student recruitment strategies for master's and doctoral programs.
• Partner with Admissions, faculty, staff, and current students to build strong recruitment networks and pipelines.
• Represent Duke at recruitment fairs, workshops, campus visits, and outreach programs.
• Coordinate visitation opportunities, research experiences, and pre-application programs for prospective students.
• Expand partnerships through initiatives such as the EDGE Collaborative and other strategic recruitment alliances.
• Explore and support the development of innovative pathways, including inter-institutional 4+1 programs.

• Design, implement, assess, and continuously improve programs that support graduate student persistence and success.
• Foster meaningful connections across academic departments to promote best practices that enhance student outcomes.
• Create initiatives that strengthen belonging, engagement, and community among graduate students.
• Provide individualized guidance and connect students with resources that support their academic, personal, professional, financial, and social well-being.
• Collaborate with campus partners to provide training and resources related to cultural awareness, crisis response, and student support.

• Evaluate programs and peer institution practices to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Develop reports and recommendations that inform strategic decision-making and student success initiatives.
• Use research, assessment data, and emerging trends to enhance Graduate Student Affairs programs and services.

• Support signature Graduate Student Affairs programs and events, including orientation, recognition ceremonies, appreciation initiatives, and awards programs.
• Serve as a trusted resource and liaison for graduate student organizations, student leaders, faculty, and staff.
• Advise student organizations on operational, financial, and organizational matters.
• Build partnerships across Duke, professional organizations, peer institutions, and national graduate education networks.
• Assist with publications, presentations, communications, and resource development that showcase Graduate Student Affairs achievements.
• Actively contribute to team planning, goal setting, and continuous improvement efforts.

Work requires a knowledge and understanding of college experience and student life as well as analytical, communications and organizational skills generally acquired through completion of a bachelor's degree program.

Work experience of at least 3 years in related area is required, with preference for those who have earned a doctorate. Must have experience in university setting, broad knowledge of higher education, and specific knowledge…