Program Director Ole Miss Opportunity Scholarship and First Gen Programs

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The Division of Access, Opportunity, and Community Engagement (DAOCE) supports the University of Mississippi's mission by fostering partnerships, access, and engagement that cultivate a sense of community, enrich learning and development, enhance research, and ensure opportunities for all. DAOCE is dedicated to creating pathways and providing support so that everyone can contribute to and thrive in the UM community. DAOCE offers a variety of programs and services that strengthen the University of Mississippi as a welcoming environment. These initiatives ensure that all students, faculty, staff, and community members have the opportunity to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors, improve their future prospects, and realize their full potential to contribute to the betterment of organizations, communities, and institutions.
 

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Administration 

Sub-Family - Program Coordination

Career Track / Level - M2

Grade - 10

Role Summary

Manages the development and implementation of an academic program or set of funded activities. Programs are usually focused to a single purpose, may be scientific, research, educational, or service oriented, and may exist as a subset of an integrated funded program activity. Oversees fiscal and grant planning, program implementation and administration, marketing, and communication.

This position plans, develops, and implements programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the academic success and personal development of first-generation college students and students receiving the Ole Miss Opportunity (OMO) Scholarship. The Program Director will collaborate with various campus departments to identify emerging needs, create tailored support systems, and foster initiatives that promote student access, engagement, and retention. The incumbent will set and track goals aligned with the university's strategic objectives, manage program budgets, develop assessment strategies to measure effectiveness, and provide leadership and guidance to program staff in support of student success.

Examples of Work Performed

• Advocates for the unique needs of first-generation students and collaborates with faculty and staff to foster a welcoming campus community. 
• Plans and executes workshops, events, and initiatives for Ole Miss Opportunity Scholars and first-generation students, focusing on student success, leadership, and community engagement. 
• Serves as a liaison between students and campus resources, including but not limited to the Office of Financial Aid, Center for Student Success, First Year Experience, and other student services offices or units. 
• Supervise and train staff, including program coordinator, graduate assistants, and student workers.
• Builds partnerships with campus departments, community organizations, and alumni to enhance support services and development opportunities for Ole Miss Opportunity Scholars and first-generation students. 
• Develops outreach initiatives to engage prospective first-generation students and families in the University of Mississippi’s pre-college programs to support access to higher education. 
• Refers students to campus resources such as Counseling Center and Career Services, as needed.
• Assists with various recruitment and transition events for prospective and current students, including support of campus partnerships in activities related to admissions, orientation, and others, as necessary.
• Collects and analyzes data to make recommendations, evaluate progress, measure impact, report to internal or external constituents, and/or develop proposals.
• Provides advisory support to student organizations. 
• Represents the Division of Access, Opportunity, and Community Engagement on university committees.
• Manage program budgets, including operational expenses.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Develops and oversees program plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring that programs are developed and implemented on time and within budget.
2. Collaborates with faculty and other stakeholders to develop and refine academic program content.
3. Manages program-related data and records, including student records, accreditation reports, and program evaluations, leveraging data to drive continuous improvement in program quality and effectiveness.
4. Leads program marketing and recruitment efforts, working with marketing and communications staff to develop and implement marketing campaigns and recruitment strategies.
5. Serves as a liaison between the program and other departments and stakeholders within the University to ensure effective coordination and alignment of program goals and objectives with broader institutional priorities and strategic plans.
6. Supervises program staff, such as program coordinators, advisors, and administrative support staff.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience:  (3) Three Years Experience Including Supervisory Experience

Preferred Qualifications

Masters and 2 years of related experience preferred.

For full consideration please include a resume and cover letter with your application. 

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.