At Saint Mary’s College, student success means more than academics—it means ensuring every student feels supported, connected, and empowered to reach her full potential. The Director for Student Empowerment has an opportunity to make a lasting impact by championing first-generation and limited-income students, connecting them with essential resources, and creating experiences that foster belonging, confidence, and success. Through individualized support, innovative programming, meaningful partnerships, and leadership of the Kessler Scholars Program, this role helps students navigate college with the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.
The Director leads the Office for Student Empowerment (OSE), overseeing student advising, emergency and donor-supported funds, programming, assessment, fiscal stewardship, and community engagement. The Director also provides strategic direction for the Kessler Scholars Program, which offers financial, academic, professional, and personal support to help first-generation students navigate their undergraduate experience with a strong sense of belonging and purpose. This position supervises the Assistant Director for Student Empowerment and First-Generation Programs, student workers, and a summer student intern while collaborating with campus partners, alumnae, donors, and community organizations to advance student success.
Minimum Qualifications- Master’s degree in Student Affairs, Higher Education, Education, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field.
- Five or more years of demonstrated successful experience in higher education, student services, or multicultural services.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Knowledge of best practices and emerging trends related to student belonging and support for first-generation and limited-income students.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and provide guidance on confidential and sensitive matters.
- Demonstrated experience implementing successful programs and strategies on a college campus.
- Ability to establish and maintain community partnerships and professional working relationships.
- Experience developing, implementing, and assessing program effectiveness.
- Strong administrative and organizational skills, including budget management, outcomes assessment, supervision, event planning, and follow-up.
- Fluency in Spanish or another language.
Full-time