Student Advocate

Job Description:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for students seeking assistance with academic, personal, or administrative concerns. Advocate for student needs in alignment with institutional policies and collaborate with campus partners to resolve issues.
• Maintain consistent communication with students through various channels (email, in-person, online platforms, etc.) to provide information, resources, and guidance on campus services, events, and policies. Promote awareness of student rights and responsibilities.
• Assist in resolving conflicts between students and faculty, staff, or other students by providing guidance on appropriate steps, mediation, or referrals to relevant resources, ensuring timely and fair outcomes.
• Work with the Director of Student Advocacy to manage cases involving student complaints, grievances, or other concerns. Ensure thorough documentation and follow-up on student cases, providing updates to the appropriate university departments, as necessary.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of student interactions and concerns for various accrediting bodies. Compile data for reports to assess trends in student issues and identify areas for improvement in student services and campus climate.
• Collaborate with the Director of Student Advocacy and other campus offices to identify and support-at-risk students. Engage in efforts aimed at improving student retention, progression, and graduation rates by addressing key challenges that impact student success.
• Provide students with a clear understanding of university policies and procedures related to academic integrity, student conduct, and other student matters. Offer guidance on navigating university resources effectively.
• Partner with various departments, including Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Budget and Finance, Enrollment Management, Counseling Services, Financial Aid, and Residence Life among others to ensure students receive comprehensive support across all areas of their university experience.

Qualifications:

• Kind, caring, and professional demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond to support students.
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Student Affairs, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field (Master’s degree a plus).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in student services, advocacy, or a related field in higher education.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with diverse student populations.
• Documented experience in conflict resolution, mediation, and case management.
• Familiarity with higher education policies, student development theory, and resources related to student advocacy and support.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, work independently, and exercise sound judgment in handling sensitive student issues.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and student information and success systems.
• Flexible schedule as this position will primarily work in an office environment but may require some evening and weekend availability to support  student events or emergencies.

 How to Apply:

Interested applicants must complete a Southern University employment Application (click here) 

Point of Contact:

Viola R. Cyriaque

viola.cyriaque@sus.edu

The Southern University System (System) is an equal employment opportunity employer and serves as a model employer for individuals with disabilities.  The System does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, or pregnancy, and prohibits harassment of any type. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on the SUS. Please inform HR@subr.edu if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in this application process.