Director of the Dowdy Multicultural Center (Manager 180) - Student Affairs

Director of the Dowdy Multicultural Center (Manager 180) - Student Affairs

Position Summary
Join a vibrant campus community whose excellence is reflected in its diversity and student success. West Chester University, a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, invites applications for the position of Director of the Dowdy Multicultural Center. This is a full-time position within the Division of Student Affairs, awarded as one of the "Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs" by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education for the second year in a row.

WCU serves approximately 17,000 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, 23% identify as Hispanic/Latino, Black, Asian, and Native American Indian nations, and 24% are Pell grant eligible. The University has more than 180 international students from 40-plus countries. With approximately 30% designated as the first in their family to complete a bachelor's degree, WCU is among the first to earn "First Forward Designation" by NASPA and The Suder Foundation.

Under the supervision of the Assistant Vice President for Student Development, the Director of the Dowdy Multicultural Center provides leadership, management, vision, and oversight for a broad and inclusive programming model that enhances the academic, social, professional, and personal development of all students, while focusing specific attention on the support of WCU’s underrepresented minorities from enrollment through graduation. The Director actively contributes to the University strategic efforts to affect a positive campus climate and promote the engagement, persistence, and retention of underrepresented students.

Responsibilities Include:

• Leadership, strategic planning and department supervision, including but not limited to: supervising full time, graduate, and undergraduate staff; oversight of the department programming model; development of initiatives in support of the divisional curriculum and the co-curricular transcript; provide strategic planning leadership and direct departmental goal setting; serve as main point of contact to alumni, corporate and community partners and those interested in supporting multicultural students
• Policy development and compliance, including but not limited to compliance with applicable legal, environmental policies and/or mandates from governing bodies; ensure programs, practices, and policies are socially just, equitable, and inclusive; minimize risk to self, students, other university constituents 
• Assessment and reporting, including but not limited to periodic review of programming initiatives and outcomes-based assessment; track all program data; manage and guide the utilization of assessment, evaluate and research reports and studies; create and submit reports as appropriate
• Miscellaneous responsibilities: including but not limited to serving as a Student Policy and Process Advisor; preparation and oversight of the departmental operating budget and stewardship of the Lawrence A. Dowdy Endowment fund; serving on appropriate University and divisional committees

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in higher education, student affairs, counseling education, or closely-related discipline
• At least six years of professional experience in appropriate levels and areas of specialization
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and train staff
• Experience working within a culturally diverse university community

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctorate degree in higher education, leadership or counseling education, or closely related field
• Evidence of supervision of multiple full-time professionals, graduate assistants, and student employees
• Evidence of experience with collaborating with academic affairs departments and other campus partners
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills
• Experience with duties such as budgeting, strategic planning, and assessment of learning
• Experience using technology to further the department's mission

WCU is a community of educators dedicated to developing graduates who succeed personally and professionally and contribute to the common good.

West Chester University serves approximately 17,000 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, 23% identify as Hispanic/Latino, Black, Asian, and Native American Indian nations, and 24% are eligible for Pell grants. With approximately 30% designated as the first in their family to complete a bachelor's degree, WCU is among the first to earn "First Forward Designation" by NASPA and The Suder Foundation.

Meeting community needs while placing students on a lifelong path of active citizenship is integral to our mission. The Carnegie Foundation (2010-2026) for Community Engagement recognized WCU for public service coursework and co-curricular programs. Preparing students to be global citizens is a critical component of our mission and goals. Currently, the University has more than 180 international students from 40-plus countries.

We are committed to leadership in extending equal opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and veteran status.

Special Instructions
Starting salary is commensurate with experience. The University offers an excellent benefits package including tuition fee waivers for self and dependents.

Apply by the online application at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wcupa/jobs/3114100/21-104-director-of-the-dowdy-multicultural-center-manager-180-student-affairs?sort=PostingDate%7CDescending&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs. Electronic application allows for cover letter and resume attachments (both required). References with contact information will be required before an interview. Review of applications will begin immediately. Applicants must successfully complete the interview process to be considered as a finalist.

Start date is negotiable.

Developing and sustaining a diverse faculty and staff advances WCU's educational mission and strategic Plan for Excellence. West Chester University is an AA/EOE employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

All employment offers are subject to and contingent upon satisfactory completion of all pre-employment criminal background and consumer reporting checks.