Program Coordinator- Upward Bound

TITLE: Counselor/Program Coordinator – Upward Bound                                                                                                           

DEPARTMENT: Upward Bound                                                    

REPORTS TO: Director of Upward Bound 

EFFECTIVE DATE:  TBD 

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time         

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt                         

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB:   

Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program designed to prepare students who are first generation and/or low income for college.  This position assists with the development and implementation of all TRIO Upward Bound program activities and services for low-income and potential first-generation college-bound high school students. This position: provides daily case management, advocacy, and social/academic support for participants; plans and facilitates college preparation workshops and classes; provides transportation and oversight of high school students in a variety of settings; and, maintains detailed and accurate records of program activities. This position requires working closely with high school students and families, as well as staff from high school and post-secondary institutions. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  

• Provides daily and intensive case management for all UB participants.
• Develops student support plans, materials, and other interventions.
• Develops, coordinates and implements educational workshops, college preparation classes, cultural/social enrichment activities, field trips, and other program events for students and families.
• Provides regular support, counsel, and advocacy for program participants.
• Provides transportation and supervision of high school students in a variety of activities, including afterschool, weekends, and overnight trips.
• Maintains confidential student records and assists with data collection and entry for required grant reports.
• Works closely with high school staff and parents, and postsecondary education administrators and staff, and other community partners.
• Maintains a working knowledge and expertise regarding college admission requirements, academic programs, and financial aid programs.
• Assists with ongoing outreach and recruitment of high school students and helps represent the program at school and community events.
• Assists the Program Director with general oversight and coordination of daily program activities.
• Participates in all program planning, identifies need for changes and recommends improvements in the program, and works closely with all other program staff.
• Participates in professional development and regional and national TRIO-related association events.

OTHER DUTIES: Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s preferred) in Counseling, Education, Psychology, or related field; background similar to participant preferred.
• At least three years’ experience in counseling low income, potential first-generation students of diverse backgrounds.
• Two years’ experience in a TRIO program preferred.  Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of academic and financial procedures. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES: 

Ability to:

• Conduct individual/group counseling sessions directed toward personal growth, resolution of behavioral concerns, career choice, and enhancement of social development of participants.
• Maintain participant records including U.S. Department of Education Upward Bound required documents, academic performance, progress evaluation, class attendance reports and results of counseling contacts.
• Monitor participant academic, personal, and social components.
• Coordinate cultural/educational enrichment activities including scheduling, contacting appropriate organizations and arrange for chaperones and transportation.
• Recruit and select participants.
• Maintain liaison with participants and their family, target area schools and counselors along with community agencies.
• Supervise activities of peer tutors/mentors and residential hall assistants; coordinate and conduct the summer phase tutorial program.
• Implement follow up mechanisms for former program participants, monitor academic year tutorials.
• Assist seniors and their parents in completing all necessary forms for admission and financial aid.    

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• No or very limited physical effort required.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Periodic travel (in and out of state) is required.

Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.