Position Description:

The Assistant Director of Residential Life for First-Year Experience provides strategic leadership and supervision for the residential communities designated for first-year students. Reporting to the Assistant Dean of Students for Residential Life, this live-in position is responsible for creating a supportive, high-engagement environment that facilitates the transition from high school to college. The Assistant Director oversees the staffing, conduct, student support, and community development of the first-year halls, working collaboratively with campus partners to improve student retention and success.

Major Responsibilities:

• The Assistant Director directly supervises the student RA staff assigned to the first-year areas.
• The Assistant Director implements the "First 6 Weeks" curriculum designed by the AD-Residential Education, focusing on social integration and basic life skills.
• The Assistant Director coordinates large-scale programming and community-building initiatives that foster a sense of belonging.
• Serving as a hearing officer, the Assistant Director adjudicates student conduct cases related to policy violations.
• The AD-FYE also serves in the senior administrative on-call rotation, responding to emergencies and providing support to on-site staff during crises.
• Serving as the primary coordinator of student staff recruitment and selection, the Assistant Director works with departmental colleagues and divisional partners to coordinate student staff/leadership selection and placement.
• The Assistant Director serves as a key point of contact for parents and families of first-year students.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• A master's degree in Student Affairs, Higher Education, Counseling, or a related field is required.
• 2-4 years of professional experience in residence life, with a specific focus on first-year student populations or transition programs.

Other Qualifications:

Strong supervisory skills, expertise in crisis intervention and conflict mediation, and a deep understanding of first-year student development theory. Ability to think critically. Strong administrative skills, including effective time and task management and clear communication. Experience with staff recruitment and training is essential.

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position, you must upload:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• List of 3 professional references
• Answer all application questions

Please address the cover letter to:

Ryan Blevins, Dean of Students
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, Indiana