Academic Resources and Retention Specialist - Advising Center, College of Education and Community Innovation

This position supports a caseload of 300+ graduate students in the Master of Social (MSW) program while also proactively coordinating and offering retention activities and resources for College of Education and Community Innovation (CECI). Retention activities include outreach, programming and event planning, as well as consistent communication through newsletters, webpages, social media, and Educational Advisory Board (EAB) Navigate Campaigns.

Salary & Benefits:  Salary range $51,000-$54,000, commensurate with experience.

Primary Duties:  Advising Support & Administration – 60%

• Maintain an advising caseload of 300+ MSW Students providing course planning, resources and referrals
• Counsel MSW students on academic probation or dismissal through an appeal process
• Manage overrides and permits for MSW course registration
• Assist on a committee to support admission to the MSW programs
• Host regular information sessions for newly admitted MSW students preparing for orientation and course registration
• Provide student support services, resources and referrals for CECI graduate students
• Assess students’ academic needs, aid them in setting goals, connect them to appropriate resources, and provide ongoing support as needed
• Understand and be able to clearly communicate academic information, including possible programs of study, resources available to students, and be knowledgeable of academic policies and administrative practices
• Partner with professional staff and faculty advisors to support students
• Maintain electronic student files and student databases
• Support New Student Orientation in Allendale (summer months only) for incoming first year students

 

Retention Activities of Outreach & Communication – 30%

• Oversee W.A.V.E. program (Wellness and Vibrancy Events) including planning events
• Represent CECI programs at open houses and/or graduate program information sessions
• Participate in campus events to promote department services
• Facilitate workshops/training and/or design resources provided to students to assist them in their development as a university student
• Produce and distribute informational materials related to programs and services creating access through digital media and systems such as Blackboard
• Create content for digital communication (website, social media, monthly newsletters)
• Create and deliver classroom presentations
• Represent CECI programs at open houses and/or graduate program information sessions
• Facilitate alumni events and panels for CECI student networking
• Assess student-centered programming and retention

 

College/University Collaboration & Engagement – 10%

• Serve on University and College Committees
• Research and distribute cross-university opportunities for CECI students
• Attend staff meetings/team meetings regularly
• Perform other duties as required/assigned by leadership

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE accredited MSW Program
• Minimum of two (2) years of post-MSW professional social work experience
• Evidence of critical, reflective thinking about the role of field education within social work education
• Record of, or demonstrated potential for, working with graduate students and community partners to support MSW field education
• Ability to provide leadership to the field education program through practice experience, field instruction experience, and administrative or other relevant academic and professional activities in social work
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact with others with respect, empathy, and cultural humility
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, including a clear commitment to anti-racist social work practice in alignment with CSWE standards
• Demonstrated ability to establish professional relationships, partnerships and collaborations, and network with community organizations and agencies
• Ability to work productively with colleagues with flexibility and creativity

 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Three (3) years or more post MSW professional social work experience
• LMSW (or equivalent license)
• Previous field placement coordination experience, strong skills in mediation and collaboration, knowledge of area social service agencies, and experience in program development and management
• Ability to contribute to the diversity of the faculty through lived experience and/or professional practice

Working Conditions: Normal office environment. Some travel may be required.

 

How to Apply: Attach your cover letter, resume, three professional references, with contact information, and a copy of academic transcripts. Applications missing required documents will not be considered. The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at [email protected]. If you have questions about the position, contact Search Chair Breeann Mann at [email protected].

 

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future. 

Application Deadline: Application closes October 7, 2026 at 11:59pm. The posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week.  The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/. TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).

 

Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.