Associate Director, Student Advocacy

Title: Associate Director, Student Advocacy

Application Review Date: 1/2/2026

Campus

Location:

Radford City - Main Campus

Work Authorization: Radford University employs individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States. Applicants requiring new H-1B visa sponsorship will not be considered.

Using a relational and holistic approach, the Associate Director for Student Advocacy will conduct intake, triage walk-ins, and provide support services to students that are experiencing varying levels of distress. This position will develop positive working relationships with faculty and offices across campus in providing advocacy and facilitating communication with and for students that are navigating complicated situations involving multiple University offices and/or policies.

The Associate Director for Student Support will provide ongoing connection and communication with families on behalf of and with their students as appropriate. The Associate Director of Student Support reports to the Associate Dean and supervises Graduate Assistants. This position will assist with case management during high volume periods, serve on an on‑call rotation responding to student and campus crisis situations.

The Associate Director for Student Support serves on the Behavioral Consultation Team, as well as University and Divisional committees as requested.

Working at Radford University provides employees with a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support personal well‑being and professional success. As part of the Commonwealth of Virginia system, Radford offers excellent health insurance options, retirement plans, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts. Employees enjoy generous paid leave, including vacation, sick time, and holidays, along with access to wellness programs and tuition assistance for continued education.

The university promotes a collaborative and collegial work environment, with opportunities for career development and a strong sense of campus community. Radford University is a place where employees are appreciated and supported in achieving both personal and professional goals.

• Demonstrated experience in student advocacy and working with students in high‑stress/emotional situations.
• Possess skills in de‑escalation of conflict and staying calm through crisis situations.
• Knowledge of and understanding of the application of student development theories.
• Knowledge and understanding of student development assessment and evaluation.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, non‑verbal and written) that can be applied across a wide range of constituents.
• Ability to work independently as well as serve as a member of an effective work team.
• Proficiency working with a computer and the ability to learn and effectively use various software.
• Ability to navigate and prioritize competing demands.
• Master’s degree in Student Affairs, Student Development, Counseling, Social Work or similar degree or equivalent combination of education and 3+ years of related work experience.

• Direct experience working with college students in and through crisis situations.
• Experience developing and delivering outreach and presentations.
• Experience with business/office social media promotion and management.
• Experience with higher education case management software (Advocate.).
• 5+ years of direct experience in higher education setting.

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Hours Per Week: 40

Months per Year: 12

Statement of Economic Interest

Required:

No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Administrative & Professional Faculty

Normal

Work Schedule:

M-F 8:00
-5:00 some evenings and weekends

Employee Classification: Professional - Lecturer

Department: Dean of Students

Salary: $47,500 - $60,000

Department Contact Name: Bruce Hayden

Department Contact Phone:

Department Contact Email: wbhayden

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation…