Assistant Director, Disability Support Services

JOB SUMMARY:

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is looking for an Assistant Director to join its Disability Support Services Office. RISD is committed to providing equal opportunity for all students. The office of Disability Support Services assists RISD students who have cognitive (learning), psychological, and physical disabilities.

The Assistant Director, Disability Support Services plays a key role in providing advocacy and assistance for a diverse community of matriculating and continuing education students, as well as global programs that support alumni. Registrants in the interactive accommodations process have various and/or multiple cognitive, physical, temporary, chronic medical and/or psychological challenges.

This role requires navigating highly complex cases independently, at times, in a highly efficient, confidential and time-sensitive manner. Must seek continuing knowledge of current and pending disability laws, be skilled on current and pending state and local legislation (ADA and Section 504) and will serve as a disability subject expert for others in the RISD community. Assists the director in designing, recommending, and evaluating existing programs and offerings. Implements programs for RISD students, based on their unique needs and learning styles.

As an employer, RISD offers a supportive, collegial, and inclusive work environment and a competitive benefits package.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

Advising & ADA Compliance:

• With an understanding of ADA and Section 504 legislation and compliance, review, evaluate, approve, and implement academic accommodations for matriculating, precollege, RISD Global (including alumni), and Continuing Education Students with disabilities. Advise matriculating students and parents / guardians on postsecondary application of ADA and Section 504.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of short- and long-term strategic disability support initiatives and programs, which support RISD’s academic mission and strategic goals. Ensure programs meet both student and institutional needs and support RISD's goals of inclusivity and access.
• Collects and analyzes relevant program and outcomes data, (tracking usage, satisfaction with initiatives, and impact on student retention and success) and makes recommendations to improve programs and initiatives, based on student feedback.

Programming and Training:

• Create and administer DSS educational initiatives related to relevant disability programming topics in collaboration with campus partners open to all RISD
• Consult with and provide training materials and workshops for RISD faculty and staff to increase disability awareness and education and promote universal design of instruction. Actively participate in New Faculty, International, & New Student Orientation(s).
• Assists Director to proactively engage with campus partners to develop and deliver training focused on advancing the SEI goals and strategic mission of the college.

Communications/Administrative

• Monitor the process of selecting, training, and evaluating student workers and interns (specifically, note takers, test proctors, personal assistants, etc.).
• Serve as an alternate to the Director for committee representation of Disability Support Services (DSS) including, but not limited to, CARE Network, and Student Life Leadership Team (SLLT).
• Represent the Director and/or serve as the main point of contact in the Director's absence.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS/SPECIFICATIONS
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
• Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years prior experience working with students with disabilities and determining appropriate and reasonable accommodations required.
• Advanced knowledge of ADA and Section 504 laws; ability to interpret language and make related recommendations.
• Demonstrated experience and assessment skills in interpreting and analyzing neuropsychological evaluations and implementing related reasonable accommodations based on the content of the evaluation.
• Demonstrated success in creating and delivering educational programs, which enhance the student experience, elicit engagement and increase learnings.
• Demonstrated empathy and sensitivity in responding to students’ needs.
• Demonstrated advocacy skills to collaboratively facilitate inclusive solutions with the ability to educate and promote the development of students’ own self-advocacy skills.
• Cultural competency with demonstrated ability to effectively partner students and families/caregivers with a wide range of backgrounds, identities and experiences.
• Working knowledge of assistive technology.

PREFERRED:
• Master’s degree in the fields of Higher Education, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or Education, Rehabilitation Services, or related field.
• Experience in higher education setting.
• Leadership experience.
• Experience navigating highly complex student cases in a time-sensitive manner.

Union

No

Work Schedule

35 hours/week; 12 months/year

Employment Status

Full-Time Regular; Exempt

Grade

530 EX

Documents Needed to Apply

Resume (required)

Cover Letter (required)

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

For internal use only - Job Family:

Student Affairs