Student Engagement & Expression Specialist

Student Engagement & Expression Specialist

University of California, Santa Cruz

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The IRD for this job is: 12/01/2025.

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It is known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation are part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

The Division of Student Affairs and Success (DSAS) is a division united in service of students. The division's North Star values include student-centered decision-making, innovation, and equity and inclusion. DSAS consists of nearly 800 team members across five major units, four led by Associate Vice Chancellors and one led by the Athletic Director. The division also does its work through a range of resource centers dedicated to providing direct student support.

The division's work is grounded in educational equity, institutional responsibility, and an unfettered commitment to supporting the whole student. The division aspires to ensure every student feels welcomed, supported, and a sense of belonging during their time on campus. The division's efforts are informed by robust and dynamic relationships with campus leadership, faculty, students, and staff from across the campus, reflecting the broad campus commitment to ensuring student success.

Beyond UC Santa Cruz, the team is involved in numerous professional organizations and highly engaged in the local community.

The Student Development and Engagement (SDE) unit is one of six major units within the Division of Student Affairs and Success. SDE provides a range of programs, services, resources and experiences for all students with a focus on community engagement, leadership, basic needs and sense of belonging. Equity and social justice are at the core of the unit's approach to working with students and cultivating a vibrant, healthy, and welcoming campus community.

The Dean of Students Office is one of the areas that make up SDE. The Dean of Students Office’s mission is to support student success and well-being, foster a safe and inclusive campus community, and help students engage fully in their education.

More information can be found at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

The Student Engagement & Expression Specialist is a key leader within the Dean of Students Office and a core member of the Student Engagement Team. Serving as a subject‑matter expert on student protest, demonstrations, and free expression, the Specialist advances campus compliance by translating federal/state law and UC policy into clear, student‑centered guidance. Reporting to the Associate Dean of Students for Leadership & Engagement, the Specialist plays a lead role related to education, outreach, policy interpretation, training, and support and response for student demonstrations and other expressive activity—working to ensure student rights are protected while safety, accessibility, and operational continuity are maintained.

This position requires a collaborative, equity‑minded, and politically astute…