GEARUP Program Coordinator

Title: GEARUP Program Coordinator

VP Area: Admissions & Marketing

Department: Admissions

Published Salary Range: 41,133

Job Summary/Basic Function:

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Admissions, Outreach & Events, the GEAR UP Program Coordinator builds strong school and community partnerships, develops college-preparation activities, and ensures compliance with all grant and reporting requirements. The position works closely with K–12 leaders, university staff, and external stakeholders to foster college-going pathways that reflect LSSU’s values of access, equity, and educational opportunity.

• Design and implement grant-aligned college access, academic enrichment, career awareness, and student success initiatives for GEAR UP and KCP College Day program participants.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on student participation, academic performance, and college readiness benchmarks as required by GEAR UP and KCP grant requirements.
• Develop and coordinate on-campus experiences, including visits, workshops, and summer programming, that connect students with faculty, staff, and LSSU’s student support services.
• Oversee program logistics, including transportation, permissions, meals, lodging (when applicable), and risk management protocols.
• Manage all program budgets, reporting, invoicing, and compliance requirements in collaboration with university grants and finance staff.
• Attend and contribute to community and charter school meetings relevant to college access initiatives.
• Collaborate with the LSSU Admissions and Outreach team to align program goals with university enrollment strategies.
• Train and supervise student workers and volunteers supporting program delivery.
• Support other campus outreach and yield efforts as assigned, especially those aimed at underserved populations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, higher education, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience working with K–12 schools, youth programs, or college access initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills, especially with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with CRM or student information systems (e.g., Banner) preferred.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends and travel to partner schools or events.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Two or more years of experience working with first-generation students, underrepresented youth, or tribal education systems.
• Familiarity with federal and state grant programs such as GEAR UP, TRIO, or KCP initiatives.
• Experience facilitating workshops or youth development programming.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to maintain a flexible and demanding schedule with occasional travel.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times (e.g., event materials).
• Requires mental focus, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Must be able to adapt to changing needs in a fast-paced and student-centered environment.

Work Hours:

M-F, 8am - 5pm / Nights & weekends as available.