Student Affairs Retention Specialist

Student Affairs Retention Specialist

The College of Community Engagement and Professions is seeking a Student Affairs Retention Specialist. The Student Affairs Retention Specialist will improve retention, persistence, and completion rates among students in the College of Community Engagement and Professions through strategic guidance, early alert systems, connection with needed university and community resources, community building activities, and coordinated academic support.

This is a 100% on-campus/in-office position. The candidate selected must be available to work 12 pm –8 pm or 1 pm-9 pm at least twice a week.

• Improves various completion rates through tailored initiatives to support students, including coordination of academic support and identification of barriers to success
• Connects students with UWM resources and helps students navigate steps to accessing resources
• Proactively reaches out to students to encourage registration, persistence, academic planning, and action related to academic concerns
• Advocates for student needs and promotes streamlined learning experience
• Leverages early alert, academic performance, and retention monitoring systems to promote student success through active outreach to students
• Builds relationships with students to understand their unique needs and challenges
• Liaises as needed with external partners while being FERPA compliant
• Coordinates student on-boarding experience and development of cohort-based professional support communities
• Develops case management system for on-going support and guidance of students

The College of Community Engagement and Professions (CCEP) at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is comprised of the School of Education, Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, and School of Information Studies. Together, they develop informed, engaged and empathetic professionals who graduate fully prepared for an array of in-demand careers. Our teaching and research – rooted in innovation, creative problem-solving, and community – sets our graduates up to inspire, innovate, and excel in their professions.

Compensation:
Minimum of $55,000 annually. Final salary offer will be contingent upon knowledge, skills, and abilities demonstrated throughout the selection process.

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Social Work, Higher Education or related field
• Minimum 2 years' experience working in a college/university setting in an advising, coaching, or related support role
• Experience using student information systems or case management tools
• Strong communication skills (as evidenced by application materials)

• Experience building relationships with various populations
• 3+ years' experience working in a college/university setting in an advising or coaching capacity
• Experience with teacher, social work, and/or information science and technology education programs

Applicants are required to apply online and will be expected to provide:

• A cover letter that addresses the candidate's professional level work experience as it relates to all required and preferred qualifications.
• A resume

Note:

Applicants must complete all required fields and attach all required documents prior to submitting the online application to ensure full consideration. Additional documents submitted aside from a cover letter and resume will not be considered.

In instances where the Search and Screen Committee is unable to ascertain from the candidates' application materials whether they meet any of the qualifications, they may be evaluated as not meeting such qualifications.

Finalist candidate(s) being considered for hire will be required to provide three professional/supervisor references through an external reference checking tool. References will not be contacted prior to candidates being notified.

Apply by the Final date to receive applications, July 27, 2026. Questions about the position should be directed to Jackson Prowse (prowse).

Reasonable Accommodations Pursuant to university policy, UWM provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment.…