Executive Director of the Department of Academic Excellence

About UsSince 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation. Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres is the University of West Georgia- a hidden gem approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta. Serving approximately 16,000+ students, and offering more than 100 programs, UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student-centered business model. Perennially ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction as a top national university, West Georgia offers 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication and digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. UWG generates a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and provides a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post-graduate career and leadership opportunities. UWG has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to community engagement through teaching, research and creative activities, and public service. West Georgia is one of only 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the elective classification in 2020 and is among only 359 institutions nationally. Dedicated to creating a first-choice university for students, alumni, employees, and communities, UWG seeks employees who will advance and support the University's mission of fulfilling the talent needs of western Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area, while contributing to the social, cultural, and economic development of the region and state.The University of West Georgia offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support faculty and staff across multiple dimensions; health, wellness, financial security, and professional growth. Employees working at least 30 hours per week gain access to a range of health plans, including medical, dental, and vision, wellness programs, and robust retirement options through Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), Optional Retirement Program, and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees are granted 13 paid holidays and paid time off accruals and are eligible to participate in the University System of Georgia's Tuition Assistance Program. Fringe benefits include a variety of resources focused on employee physical, mental, financial, and social well-being through Acentra Employee Assistance Program in addition to personal financial advising with Captrust. UWG also offers exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment, travel, and other products and services through the Perks at Work program, free access to the university recreation facility, discounted campus dining options, and more!Living in Carrollton, "The City of Dreams," offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region.At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus.The city embraces the University's students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community.Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.Job SummaryAs a University College member, the Executive Director for Academic Excellence will provide strategic leadership and vision as well as oversight of business and human resource activities and program administration for the Department of Academic Excellence. This specific unit works to enhance students’ academic success, retention, and graduation rates at the University of West Georgia. This member will lead the day to day operations of a team of full-time staff, administrative assistants, graduate assistants, and undergraduate student employees in the Center for Academic Success (tutoring, academic coaching, supplemental instruction), University Advising, and Academic Partnerships (dual enrollment and Jump!-Summer Bridge Program).Responsibilities1.-Collaborate with faculty, department chairs, academic deans, strategic enrollment management partners, and student affairs units on issues and initiatives integral to student success and RPG. Manage and report program-wide assessment and evaluation results that measure university and state objectives, including advisor delivery outcomes, and overall usage and effectiveness of services for all units within the department. Collaborate and work with Strategic Enrollment Management, Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment, and Information Technology Systems to utilize predictive analytical tools to prioritize proactive interventions designed to impact student success and retention of first-year students, but each cohort of UWG students.2.-Assist in designing and developing materials for programs and utilization of EAB Navigate and/or related IT tools intended to increase the persistence and retention of UWG students. Analyze institutional data related to student progression to identify students most at risk for attrition based on a broad range of demographic, academic, and socioeconomic attributes. Maintain knowledge of best practices in student success, academic advising, tutoring, coaching, and learning assistance, as well as retention and progression.3.-Oversee the department’s budget and serve as the fiscal agent for the Department and its respective units. Recommend various personnel actions including, but not limited to, hiring, terminations, transfers, promotions, performance appraisals, and vacation work schedules.4.-Represent the Department of Academic Excellence at Provost Council and on the Student Success Council. Be a designated Clery Act Campus Security Authority Be a resource for academic policy, student success behaviors, and other duties as assigned.Physical Requirements Lifting – up to 15lbsOffice Environment - Work normally performed in a typical interior work environment.Required QualificationsRequired EducationMasters DegreeRequired ExperienceAt least 12 year’s experience in higher education instruction or academic support. Knowledge and experience within academic support units and/or academic advising. Knowledge of methods to manage personnel, budget and organization of an academic/ student support department. Excellent written, verbal, and nonverbal communication skills required. Ability to create and maintain a team-oriented work environment.Preferred QualificationsPreferred Education Doctorate / PhdPreferred Experience Prior collegiate tutoring/coaching/ advising and/or teaching experience. Prior supervision and directorships of an Academic Success Center and/or Advising unit.Proposed Salary$90,000-$95,000 Annually. Paid on a Monthly Basis.