Director of the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program

Job Description

Job Description

Viterbo University invites applications for the position of Director of the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program, a key leadership role dedicated to advancing student success through academic support, advising, and engagement.

The Director of the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program is a full-time, 12-month administrative position responsible for the leadership, management, and overall success of the federally funded TRIO grant program, which provides academic support, advising, community-building opportunities, and student engagement programming for eligible students.

Reporting to the Director of the HUB for Student Success, the Director will ensure compliance with federal regulations, foster collaborative partnerships across campus, and advance student success through strategic planning, assessment, and data-informed leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership and Compliance

• Provide strategic leadership for the TRIO Student Support Services program, ensuring alignment with the university's mission and student success goals.
• Direct and coordinate all aspects of the TRIO program in compliance with federal regulations and grant objectives.
• Supervise and support TRIO program staff.
• Lead recruitment and retention efforts for eligible students.
• Develop and implement programming and support services that promote participant persistence, retention, and graduation.

Grant and Budget Management

• Oversee the TRIO program budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with federal guidelines.
• Prepare and submit the Annual Performance Report (APR) to the U.S. Department of Education, documenting program outcomes and achievements.
• Monitor and analyze program data using tools such as the LUCY database and Starfish to assess student progress and program effectiveness.

Student Support and Advocacy

• Develop and implement initiatives that enhance the academic, social, and personal success of TRIO participants.
• Provide guidance, support, and resources to students in achieving their educational and career goals.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to foster an inclusive campus environment that supports first-generation students, low-income students, and students with disabilities.

Collaboration and Visibility

• Build and sustain partnerships across campus and with external organizations to expand resources and opportunities for TRIO students.
• Serve as an advocate for the TRIO program by promoting its mission and visibility within the university community.

Assessment and Reporting

• Compile program reports and assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of TRIO services and support continuous improvement efforts.
• Use data-informed strategies to guide decision-making, demonstrate program impact, and meet grant objectives and reporting requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in education, counseling, student services, or a related field required; master's degree preferred.
• Administrative experience, preferably in higher education and/or grant-funded programs.
• Strong understanding of federal regulations and guidelines related to TRIO programs.
• Experience with grant writing, budget management, and reporting preferred.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for diverse student populations.

Reports to:

Director of the HUB for Student Success

To Apply:

Please complete the online employment application and upload the following:

• Letter of application indicating interest and qualifications
• Resume
• Three professional references

About the University:

Viterbo University is a private Catholic, Franciscan institution founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. Viterbo is dedicated to preparing students for faithful service and ethical leadership. Viterbo offers a student-centered liberal arts education with a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the university is nestled along the scenic Mississippi River and surrounded by the stunning bluffs of the Driftless Region. The local area combines natural beauty with a vibrant, welcoming community, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation, arts and culture. Together, Viterbo and La Crosse provide an exceptional place to live, work, and make a difference.

The university does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex or engage in sex discrimination in any education program or activity that the university operates. Title IX's mandate not to discriminate on the basis of sex extends to students, employees, applicants for employment, and other persons in all aspects of the university's programs, activities, and operations. Inquiries regarding how Title IX applies to the university may be referred to the university Title IX coordinator, to the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights, or to both.

Contact information for the Title IX coordinator is available at