International Student Advisor plays a crucial role in providing specialized support to international students and scholars. They are responsible for offering comprehensive advising services in areas such as immigration, academics, professional development, personal well-being, and mental health. The advisor actively reaches out to students facing academic or personal challenges and assists them proactively. Additionally, they serve as advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), focusing on helping international students acclimate to the culture while promoting and celebrating their unique backgrounds through organizing events and mentoring future leaders. The advisor also takes the lead in supporting and retaining first-year international students, maintaining their support and guidance until graduation and beyond, by motivating and challenging them to complete their degrees on time. The position’s first consideration date is 02/19/2024. Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Act as the primary point of contact for international students and scholars, establishing connections to university services, campus resources, and programs essential for their success both in and outside the classroom. Address student needs and interests related to cultural adjustment, educational planning, and academic or personal concerns. Provide immediate mental health support and connect students to relevant resources. Prioritize student retention. 2. Conduct educational outreach to disseminate information on immigration regulations, academics, mental health, DEI initiatives, and topics relevant to international students. Focus on retaining students. 3. Maintain detailed records of student interactions and implement follow-up processes. Utilize available technology, student interactions, and proactive data analysis to provide targeted outreach for immigration maintenance and student success. Oversee assigned student success alerts and outreach within the International Student and Scholar Services. Prioritize student retention. 4. Serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternative Responsible Officer (ARO) for F and J visa holders. Interpret and enforce regulations set by the US Department of Homeland Security and US Department of State and maintain immigration records. This includes updating information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), interpreting immigration regulations, and adhering to university and federal policies. Collaborate with other DSOs and AROs to ensure consistency in protocol. 5. Teach one or more sections of the mandatory Acculturation FYE course, comprising 2.0 credits. Design engaging and effective course content, assignments, and assessments using best practices and available technology. Monitor trends and gather feedback to update and enhance the curriculum based on the needs of international students. Prioritize student success, acculturation assistance, and retention. 6. Advise the International Student Ambassador (ISA) organization consisting of 50 members. Lead the ISA and designated focus initiatives to support retention efforts and foster cultural sensitivity on campus. Coordinate weekly ISA meetings and professional development training. Oversee programming, service projects, morale activities, outdoor excursions, weekly shopping trips, and various cultural events. Develop educational material and activities with expected learning outcomes for ISA members and event attendees. Coordinate campus, social media, and digital marketing campaigns. 7. Coordinate and oversee arrival services and related arrangements (e.g., housing, registration) for new incoming international students and scholars. Establish targeted pre/post-arrival support communication for students. Assist in planning and implementing orientation programs. 8. Provide consultation and direction to college faculty, staff, external departments, administrators, and other campus colleagues and partners regarding immigration maintenance, enrollment, retention, completion, cultural awareness, advocacy, DEI, and student support initiatives. Foster collaboration and coordinate student outreach across departments. Serve on division and university committees as required. 9. Demonstrate and foster cultural competence while working with students, faculty, and staff. Emphasize advocacy for international students and DEI initiatives. 10. Fulfill any other duties as assigned. Education and Experience Requirements: Minimum Qualifications: – Must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to serve as DSO and/or ARO. – A bachelor’s degree is required, while a master’s degree in a related field is preferred. – Proficiency and comfort with technology, including office programs, student information systems, higher education software, and the ability to quickly learn new computer-based programs. – Familiarity with the SEVP, SEVIS management, and USCIS regulations pertaining to F and J visa holders. – Working knowledge of the Banner Sungard student information system. – Ability to interpret and apply complex guidelines, rules, and regulations. Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to analyze data and take action based on complex information. – Excellent communication skills, including public speaking, professional presentation, technical writing, and interpersonal communication. Awareness of challenges in communicating with non-English speakers and possession of patience, persistence, empathy, and cultural awareness for effective intercultural communication. – Strong organizational and prioritization skills when managing multiple tasks and competing demands. – Ability to collaborate with colleagues and work independently to accomplish individual, institutional, and departmental goals. – Possession of an unrestricted driver’s license and ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. In accordance with Utah State Code 53B-1-110, appointment to this position is contingent upon the successful passing of a background check. Preferred Qualifications: – Two or more years of experience working with young adults and students in an educational setting. – Previous experience in student advising, counseling, student involvement and leadership, or teaching. – Previous experience serving as a DSO and/or ARO, including interaction with SEVIS and documentation and organization of institutional records for international students and scholars. – Experience in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. – Experience in coordinating programs and events. Documents Needed to Apply: – Resume – Cover Letter – Contact information for at least 3 professional references Southern Utah University is committed to equal opportunity and does not discriminate against individuals based on race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex (including sex discrimination and sexual harassment), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, disability status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, military status, veteran status, or other protected bases under applicable law. The university provides equal employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, and other benefits and services. For more information, please visit the university’s non-discrimination policy at https://www.suu.edu/nondiscrimination/. To apply, please visit the following link: https://suu.applicantpro.com/jobs/3227003 jeid-8d757cae64d15b4fa62c795b532554ca