Director of Multicultural Student Affairs, Widener University

Posted by on April 30, 2007

Widener University is pleased to announce the following position:

Widener University
Multicultural Affairs Position Description

Position Title: Director of Multicultural Student Affairs

Minimum Education Required: Master?s degree in higher education, student affairs, counseling, diversity education, or a related field.

Experience Required: 3-5 years experience in a higher education environment. Additional experience in multicultural programming also desirable.

Reports to: Executive Director, Multicultural and International Student Services

Skills and Characteristics Required for Position: Evidence of (1) skills in multicultural programming; (2) commitment to the intellectual and interpersonal development of students; (3) commitment to building and nurturing an inclusive community; (4) abilities in problem-solving and conflict resolution; (5) collaborative leadership style; (6) organizational skills in developing, assessing, and promoting cultural programs; and (7) strong written and verbal communication skills.

General Description: The Director of Multicultural Student Affairs provides leadership in a wide range of multicultural student programs and serves to advance the university?s commitment to diversity as articulated in the University?s as well as Student Affairs? Mission, Vision, and Strategic Plan. The Director of Multicultural Student Affairs develops programs and initiatives that increase the satisfaction and retention of underrepresented students by sensitizing members of the campus community to issues regarding race, ethnicity, disabilities, sexual orientation, and religion. The Director works collaboratively with Student Affairs and other campus professionals to integrate an appreciation of diversity into programs and services for all students. The Director has the responsibility to perform the following:

Essential Duties:

1. Develop collaborative partnerships with university offices, including Student Life, Disability Services, Residence Life, Interfaith Center, and Admissions in order to advance a campus culture of inclusion that supports the achievement and well-being of underrepresented students.

2. Develop and coordinate educational programs, services, and resources to promote the development of a culturally diverse university community.

3. Serve as member of the Diversity Council and participate on various department, program, and university committees that are consistent with the position.

4. Assist with advising related to student organizations (e.g., Black Student Union, Straight-Gay Alliance, International Club). Provide student advocacy and conflict resolution.

5. Improve existing programs and develop new initiatives in the retention of students from historically underrepresented groups.

6. Assist in the planning and implementation of university-wide initiatives that advance multicultural sensitivity and awareness (including Martin Luther King Day, Black History Month, Women?s History Month, International Week, New Student Orientation) and other Student Affairs initiatives.

7. Assist with the planning and development of New Faculty Orientation from the perspective of multicultural affairs and diversity.

8. Assist in managing budgets for Multicultural Student Affairs Office and assist in budget management for related student organizations.

9. Conduct assessments of the needs and satisfaction of underrepresented students.

10. Serve as a member of the Retention Committee.

11. Gather data and prepare annual reports concerning student input and student perspectives on policy decisions.

12. Serve as a member of the Crisis Response Team on issues concerning diversity and multiculturalism.

Please submit resumes via email to: Maria Birdsong, mlbirdsong@mail.widener.edu