GEAR UP Director

Position: *GEAR UP Director

The GEAR UP Program is recruiting for one full time Director. Under the general supervision of the Vice President of Student Services, this position is responsible for overseeing the Victoria College GEAR UP program in partnership with Victoria ISD. The position will provide leadership in program policy, development, implementation, assessment, communication and evaluation of a $1.2 million dollar federally funded grant.

The position will be responsible for
1) the realization of increased college eligibility, preparation, and enrollment within the established cohort, largely functioning with autonomy to establish program goals, budgets, and personnel; and
2) for grant oversight, compliance, and meeting of grant deliverables within the established narrative, including hiring, supervision, training, and support to direct service staff. The position will also represent the program internally and externally – leading communication with United States Department of Education (USDOE) – and will work with administration to reach both programming and unit goals/strategic plans.

* This position is grant funded; the anticipated grant period is seven years, 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2031, contingent upon annual renewals.

This position is benefits eligible. For more information on Victoria College's excellent benefits package, click the benefits tab.

About Our Institution

Victoria College (VC) is a vital public community college located in Victoria, Texas and has been a respected community partner in the Crossroads region since 1925 and continues to offer quality, affordable educational opportunities to help our students achieve their dreams. VC offers a variety of high-quality associate's degrees and transfer programs, preparing students for success in their chosen fields. The college fosters a close-knit community, serving approximately 7,100 students across diverse backgrounds and learning styles, including full-time, part-time, online, veterans, and adult learners.

VC features five academic divisions:

Academic Support & Student Success

Allied Health

Career & Technical Education

Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences

Science, Mathematics, Engineering, & Physical Education

Additionally, VC offers various programs through the Academy of Lifelong Learning, catering to the educational needs of the community. Living in the Area

Victoria, a charming city with a population of around 67,000, provides a welcoming and affordable environment. Residents enjoy a variety of benefits, including diverse culinary experiences, a rich cultural scene with museums and art galleries, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Victoria boasts over 50 parks and green spaces, including Riverside Park and Spring Creek Greenway, offering scenic walking and biking trails.

The city is well-connected with regional transportation networks, including Victoria Regional Airport and multiple bus services. Victoria's cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for students and families alike.

Program Management, Supervision, and Evaluation

Provides administrative leadership for Victoria College’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) programs with the goal of increasing college access and preparation for low-income, first generation, underrepresented students.

Fosters college-going and completion cultures at partner district/schools in partnership with postsecondary institutions, community partners and program staff. Including identifying barriers to college preparation and access and working collaboratively with key partners to create systemic change to address them.

Ensures all GEAR UP program deliverables are met; developing and implementing programming and policy decisions that are in compliance with federal and state grant guidelines and college policies, procedures, and regulations, and are in alignment with established program outcomes.

Collects, reviews and analyzes participant and program data. Including developing measurable ways to evaluate the effectiveness of the programs; ensuring accountability to stakeholders; completing all reporting requirements; and…