Director - Student Affairs Assessment, Research & Planning

Position Title: Director - Student Affairs Assessment, Research & Planning

Department: Student Affairs - 40000

Vacancy Number: E145

Position Number: 8573

Location of Workplace: Main UNCW Campus

Summary of Position:

Reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, the Director of Student Affairs Assessment, Research, and Planning coordinates all divisional assessment initiatives, but also provides support for strategic planning and accreditation compliance efforts in the Division. This position serves on the divisional leadership team as well as the University Leadership Council. The Director serves a critical role within the division and offers a strong voice in data-informed decision making.

The Director provides leadership, coordination and expertise in designing, implementing, and interpreting assessment projects related to student development, learning outcomes, and educational programming/services and measuring how these initiatives impact student success and retention. The Director provides expertise on the types of assessments that will be most effective, as well as guidance on designing instruments, sampling, data analysis, and reporting. It is essential that this person is not only an expert in conducting the various assessment processes but must also possess the ability to train staff and to consult others on best practices. The Director also coordinates the annual reporting and strategic planning process for the Division.

The office of Student Affairs Assessment, Research, and Planning consists of the Director, an Assessment & Research Coordinator, and 1-2 graduate assistants (as needed). The Director also coordinates and leads the Student Affairs Assessment Committee and contributes to SACS-COC reports and other accreditation efforts. There is also the opportunity to teach academic courses based on schedule and availability.

Minimum Requirements:

Must possess strong analytic, writing, interpersonal, and computer skills. This person should also demonstrate the ability to summarize and present complex analysis of data to varied audiences and constituents. It is essential that this person has strong communication skills and understands the need for confidentiality when appropriate.
The Director must hold a master’s degree with at least three years of experience in assessment research emphasizing learning evaluation. Experience in experimental and survey design, data analysis, and statistical reporting are essential. The Director of Student Affairs Assessment, Research, and Planning should also have knowledge of appropriate technology in data management, application, and presentation of results.

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with Campus Labs Baseline is a plus. A background in theory and practice in education, communication, social sciences or related field is preferred. Doctorate strongly preferred.

Primary Function of Organizational Unit:

The Division of Student Affairs has recently been recognized as one of the “Top 18 Most Promising Places to Work in the U.S.” by Diverse Issues in Higher Education. The Division consists of fifteen functional departments, each of which is responsible for providing a variety of student support, service, and educational programs which are accessible to all members of the university community. The staff members are dedicated individuals known for their passion and commitment to implementing programs and services that affect student development over the course of a lifetime. Student Affairs provides excellent delivery of student services that are responsive to student needs and promotes the quality of life and education both inside and outside the classroom. We build institutional traditions and lifelong affiliations through creative programs, vibrant student organizations, and a living/learning environment built on core values and uncompromising principles. The Division is a leader and primary spokesperson for students.

University Information:

The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to learning through the integration of teaching and mentoring with research and service. A public institution with over 15,000 students, the university is known for its superb faculty and staff and powerful academic experience. With an array of high-quality programs at the baccalaureate and master’s levels, and doctoral programs in marine biology, educational leadership, psychology and nursing practice. UNCW is consistently recognized at a national level for academic excellence and affordability by publications like U.S. News & World Report, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and The Business Journals. UNCW also recently earned the 2015 Community Engagement Classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, bestowed to higher education institutions dedicated to community involvement.

EEO Statement:

UNC Wilmington actively fosters a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment and is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified men and women from all racial, ethnic or other minority groups, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.


Months Per Year:12 Months

Position Type: Permanent

Job Posting Date: 02/23/2017

Priority Consideration Date: 03/23/2017

Priority Consideration Information:Priority consideration will be given to applications received by the Priority Date; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled.