Program Director, Graduate & Diversity; Student Services Professional IV

Job no: 561955
Work type: Staff
Location: San Diego
Categories: Unit 4 - APC - Academic Professionals of California, Probationary, Full Time, Student Services, On-site (work in-person at business location)

San Diego State University is seeking a Program Director to lead the Office of Graduate Life and Diversity (GLaD), a unique campus resource dedicated to supporting the academic, personal, and professional success of graduate students. GLaD provides services and programs focused on graduate student engagement, community building, career preparation, writing support, leadership development, wellness, and belonging.

Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Campus and Community Affairs, the Program Director will guide GLaD’s daily operations, programs, staff, and resources while building strong partnerships across campus and in the broader community. This role will engage directly with graduate students, support a diverse student population, respond to complex or sensitive concerns through appropriate referrals, and use assessment and feedback to strengthen programs and services.

• Lead GLaD’s programs, services, strategic priorities, and day-to-day operations in alignment with graduate student needs and SDSU’s goals.
• Supervise and support professional staff, student employees, writing consultants, and other team members through clear expectations, training, mentorship, and professional development.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs that promote graduate student success, engagement, belonging, leadership development, career readiness, and retention.
• Build collaborative relationships with campus departments, student organizations, faculty, community partners, alumni, and potential external supporters to expand resources available to graduate students.
• Monitor budgets, expenditures, space use, purchasing, and operational processes while ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Analyze student feedback, participation data, and program outcomes to identify trends, prepare reports, and recommend improvements to GLaD’s services and initiatives.

• Help shape a growing and distinctive campus resource focused specifically on the success and well-being of graduate students.
• Make a meaningful difference for students from diverse backgrounds through programs that support connection, belonging, academic progress, and career development.
• Collaborate with partners across SDSU while helping strengthen the long-term sustainability, visibility, and impact of GLaD.
• Join a team committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where graduate students can thrive.

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• This position is designated as exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.
• The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego

The Office for Graduate Life and Diversity supports the success, well-being, and professional growth of SDSU graduate students by fostering an inclusive environment centered on diversity, equity, and belonging. The office provides a range of resources and programs, including writing support, workshops, professional development opportunities, mental health and wellness resources, printing services, and co-curricular activities that help graduate students build community and thrive throughout their academic and professional journeys.

For more information regarding the Office for Graduate Life and…