Assistant Director Classic Upward Bound Program

This position helps ensure compliance with U.S. Department of Education/Labor regulations and grant objectives while providing leadership in program operations, student services, and community partnerships. 

The Assistant Director works collaboratively with metro-area high schools, Creighton University departments and programs, community organizations, families, and program staff to increase college access, retention, and success for low-income, first-generation students.

Essential Functions:

• Deliver individual comprehensive academic, career, and financial aid literacy advising for high school participants; assist students with high school graduation planning, college admissions, FAFSA completion, scholarship applications, and career exploration; evaluate and monitor participant progress through regular case management, documentation, and follow-up.


• Recruit eligible low-income, first-generation students into both the Classic Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math Science programs.


• Develop and implement academic and pre-college preparatory workshops focused on college readiness, career planning, financial literacy, leadership development, and student success.  These are delivered on Creighton’s campus, in local schools, during Saturday Morning School, and through the Summer Academy.


• Assist the Director in the daily administration and operation of the Classic Upward Bound program, including activities that support grant objectives, data collection, compliance with federal regulations, institutional policies, and grant requirements, and coordination of special projects, workshops, college visits, and summer programming.


• Assist in the supervision of the Upward Bound tutoring program.


• Contribute to Student Success divisional efforts that support the persistence, retention, and overall success of Creighton students as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education, counseling, student affairs, social work, or a related field required; master's degree preferred. 


• Minimum of three years of experience working with college access, TRIO, GEAR UP, Upward Bound, educational outreach, or similar programs. 


• Experience working with low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented student populations. 


• Demonstrated knowledge of college admissions, financial aid, FAFSA, scholarships, and career planning. 


• Experience with program coordination, data management, and federal grant compliance preferred. 


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, databases, and student information systems. 


• Valid driver's license and the ability to travel regularly to target schools and program events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of educational equity, college access, and student development principles. 


• Strong communication skills, leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills. 


• Ability to analyze program data and prepare comprehensive reports. 


• Skilled in establishing effective relationships with students, families, educators, and community partners. 


• Commitment to serving diverse populations and promoting educational opportunities. 


• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.