Department: Multicultural Affairs
Search #: 

Southern Connecticut State University is a diverse and student-centered university dedicated to academic excellence, access, and service for the public good. Southern provides a supportive and welcoming environment for all members of its community through a campus wide commitment to social justice. Founded as a teacher’s college in 1893, Southern has evolved over the past century into a comprehensive public university of more than 10,000 students, offering graduate and undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and professional disciplines. It is one of four universities in the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System. The University is located in New Haven, a city rich with arts and culture, and less than 90 miles from New York City and 140 miles from Boston.

Reporting to the Director, the Associate Director is responsible for developing, coordinating, and facilitating student engagement programming in the areas of diversity and social justice with specific attention to the needs of marginalized and underrepresented student populations. The Associate Director provides coaching and support for cultural, LGBTQ+ and faith-oriented student organizations; provides trainings and programs that address issues of power, privilege and oppression; and supports activities that celebrate a myriad of cultures and identities. Additionally, the Associate Director works collaboratively with colleagues across campus, including in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, to promote diversity in the classroom, residence halls, social spaces, and workplace to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff from varying backgrounds, races, ethnicities, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, gender identities, and socio-economic statuses. 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of four years of full-time experience in multicultural education, LGBTQ+ advocacy, diversity training, underrepresented student initiatives, or related area
• Demonstrated commitment to creating a just and inclusive community, intercultural competency, and enthusiasm for working in an institution committed to social justice
• Understanding of social identity development and intersectionality;
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, and faculty in promoting diversity and inclusivity initiatives
• Experience with various social media venues
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• Experience advising and coaching students and/or student organizations
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in related field
• Related experience on a college or university campus
• Experience supervising student staff
• Evidence of success in project management
• Experience in program and training development, implementation and assessment
• A proven ability to work independently and collaboratively.

These qualifications may be waived for individuals with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Essential Functions

Coordinates educational, cultural, and social programs designed to enhance an understanding of diversity and inclusion, identity and intersectionality, and intercultural and anti-racist learning; fosters a campus climate that acknowledges and demonstrates empathy and mutual respect; and educates and prepares students to become conscientious global leaders in a rapidly changing, global society. 

Oversees the daily operation of the Multicultural Center and SAGE Center physical spaces, including selection and supervision of SAGE graduate intern and various student staff. 

Provides outreach, programs, services, resources, and initiatives that assist underrepresented students with minoritized identities in their successful transition to, progress and success through, and graduation from Southern. 

Advises the Multicultural Leadership Council and serves as a campus advocate, coach and resource for all cultural, LGBTQ+ and faith-oriented student organizations, in collaboration with Student Involvement and Leadership Development. 

Develops, delivers and collaborates with campus partners, including the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, on signature diversity programs for cultural awareness, identity-related remembrances and celebrations, commemorative observances and heritage months, major religious and cultural holidays, etc. 

Provides leadership and coordination for University initiatives and support services that enhance the student experience and promote the success and personal development of LGBTQ+ students. Serves as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and supports the development and implementation of LGBTQ+ related programs, trainings, and workshops. 

Oversees social media engagement and general marketing for departmental initiatives and programs. 
Assists the director in conducting research and assessment using best practices and benchmarking for innovative initiatives serving various communities. 

Performs other duties and responsibilities related to those enumerated above which do not alter the basic level of responsibility of the position. 

Application

For full consideration, please submit a letter of interest, resume and contact information for three professional references to Maria Vasquez at studentaffairs@southernct.edu.  For full consideration, please submit application materials no later than June 9, 2023.  The position will remain open until filled.
   

Southern Connecticut State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The University seeks to enhance the diversity of its faculty and staff. People of color, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.