Assistant Dean of Students, Graduate Life Office

The Graduate Life Office (GLO), is an office in the Student Life division of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs unit (VPSA).  GLO is the central University office that provides support and resources to graduate students and student families, as well as to offices and individuals that support graduate students.  The office aims to provide relevant services to students and their families to meet personal challenges and to achieve their academic goals.  GLO develops and organizes programs to promote and cultivate connection, socialization, and community among graduate students.  
 
GLO serves all graduate students living on- and off-campus.  Its programs focus on welcoming and orienting students; developing educational, social, multicultural, and recreational programs.  The office’s services involve supporting and advising students who are experiencing personal difficulties; and responding to emergency situations.  The Graduate Life Office administers the residence program and oversees the student residence staff in Escondido Village (Singles/Couples and Families), EVGR, Kennedy, Lyman, Rains, Munger Houses and Off-Campus Subsidized Housing.

JOB PURPOSE:

Direct complex programs or functions in consultation with senior managers/leadership. 
 
Administer, implement, and interpret university and department policies and procedures on issues regarding admission, financial aid, housing, registrar services, visa services, student life, advising, career counseling and academic services. Identify, clarify, and resolve highly visible or complex issues with substantial significance and impact that may span multiple areas, using expert technical and professional knowledge requiring independent judgment. 
 
Work on multi-faceted issues of diverse complexity (size, degree, focus, expertise, breadth, impact) where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors.  Evaluates, determines and implements appropriate protocol, methods, de-escalation techniques and evaluation criteria for addressing critical, student issues and crisis.  Networks with key contacts outside of department, Student Affairs and/or the university.

Provide comprehensive and relevant support services to graduate students from all seven schools through consultation, case management, crisis response, and programming that enhances the quality of graduate student life. Assistant Deans are also available to any graduate student-facing support staff and faculty across the university to provide a range of services, including but not limited to assessing the seriousness and urgency of a situation, identifying appropriate campus resources, and working to develop creative solutions for navigating issues related to degree progress or disruptive student behavior on campus or in residents.

In this role, you will:

• Oversee a student services program, assess effectiveness, and decide on eligibility. Offer tailored support to graduate students across all seven schools through consultation, case management, crisis response, and life-enhancing programs
• Critically analyze and resolve complex student and program issues using advanced expertise. Attend weekly case management meetings. Manage student cases independently and collaborate during crises, involving public safety as needed. Serve as an emergency responder in a weekly on-call rotation, represent the University during severe student emergencies, including illness, injury, or death, and coordinate with family, agencies, and departments.
• Develop and implement virtual and in-person programs, making strategic recommendations. Collaborate with GLO colleagues, academic departments, and campus partners to offer diverse programming for graduate students, including orientations, wellness activities, and QPR training. Attend and support campus-wide events, especially after-hours. Serve on University boards and committees, interpret and implement academic policies, and oversee their application. Provide case management, guiding students through university policies, and consult with faculty and staff to support students in complex situations
• Analyze and develop reports, portals, and student communications. Issue broad emails to inform, support, and educate graduate students. Present at orientations and trainings, and offer advice and support in response to critical issues.
• Evaluate and determine recommendations on technology resources, negotiate with resources options and vendors.
• Manage outreach programs and relationships with external partners and university liaisons. Collaborate on events, co-host programs, and serve on university boards. Advocate for students during crises, coordinating campus groups to resolve issues. Participate in new student orientation, resource fairs, and student recruitment efforts, including after-hours sessions.
• Offer guidance to students on a wide range of issues, including academic progress, program policies, career plans, accessibility, community standards, and mental health, helping them make informed decisions. Provide resource recommendations and assist students in navigating academic and personal challenges, such as conflicts, financial or housing issues, and career planning. Lead in managing student cases by organizing, consulting, and collaborating with academic and Student Affairs colleagues to support student needs
• Apprise students of research, fellowship and scholarship opportunities, make recommendations and may award grants.
• May contribute to preparing and submitting training grants.
• Provide consulting advice to internal and external organizations, act as subject matter expert in a specialized field.
• Oversee key processes, including policy and program development. Review and write policies, assess impact, and gather student feedback. Conduct focus groups, present data, and recommend solutions. Manage budgets and financial processes, including spring training budgets for Community Associates. Lead teams, search committees, and staff training programs