Boise State University, powered by creativity and innovation, stands uniquely positioned in the Northwest as a metropolitan research university of distinction. Learn more about Boise State and the City of Boise at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/

Boise State University is building an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students. Research demonstrates that people thrive when they feel welcome, respected, and inspired. We seek applicants who are committed to helping us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Applications from members of historically marginalized groups, including women, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged.

Director creates and executes management plans, assesses priorities, aligns resources, and recommends opportunities for innovation. Perform program administration, provides leadership for the development, expansion, assessment, and administration of program through partnerships with the University’s academic departments.

Boise State University invites applications for the position of the Director of First Year Experiences. The Boise State Strategic Enrollment and Retention Plan focuses on addressing equity gaps in access and attainment for the following student populations: Rural, Hispanic/LatinX, Pell Grant Eligible, and First Generation. One of our key strategies for closing equity gaps is to “Identify, articulate, and operationalize clear, intentional Boise State first-year experiences.” With a Dean who is dedicated to increasing first-year support, the College of Arts and Sciences is leading the effort, in close partnership with the Provost's office and Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Boise State strives to improve a first to second year retention rate of 79.2% within our first-time full-time cohort (Fall 2021). The Director of First Year Experiences will play a pivotal role in ensuring students' success and retention in the first year and beyond.

By coordinating first-year support, we will increase belonging, self-efficacy, connection, and purpose in our first-year and newly transferring students so that they return with confidence the next year. The Director will join a campus culture that offers robust first-year support and will prioritize the coordination and enhancement of existing programs, as well as the identification of the gaps we must address in order to better serve students. More specifically, the Director will work closely with University Foundations (Boise State’s general education program), New Student Programs, Advising and Academic Support, and the Center for Teaching and Learning. The Director of First Year Experiences reports to the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education and Student Success in the College of Arts and Sciences and will work closely with the Directors of Advising, First-Year Writing, and the Math Learning Center. The First-Year Experiences Director will also sit on the General Education Committee.

This position is a 12-month, professional staff position. Candidates must be able to work on-site.

The new Director will find Boise State University is an exciting place to work. We are a large, public university in Idaho with an enrollment of more than 24,000 students, located in Idaho’s capital city and largest metropolitan area. The university engages local government, businesses - including a growing high-tech sector, health care providers, and populations across the state as well as the region. Nested in the foothills, Boise is convenient to outdoor recreation, including world-class whitewater rivers, skiing, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, and camping. Boise is driving distance from many national parks as well as major metropolitan cities, such as Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake City, and San Francisco.

Boise State University is a Carnegie Classified Doctoral Research University with an innovative model that emphasizes rigorous research and a strong commitment to teaching our undergraduate and graduate students. We have a Carnegie Community Engagement classification and are working to become an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution.

Manages a program, regardless of size, that has critical impact upon the campus. Significant responsibility for formulating and administering policies and programs, manages significant human, financial, and physical resources, and functions with a very high degree of autonomy. Frequently influences business decisions made by senior leadership. Oversees through subordinate Managers the accountability and stewardship of campus resources and the development of systems and procedures to protect organizational assets. Negotiates and influences others to understand and accept new concepts, practices and approaches.

60% of Time the Program Director must:

• This position manages enrollment projections, promotes the program, directs committees, and manages partnerships with other academic programs/departments. 
• Strategic planning, data analysis, and annual reports are all essential components of this position.
• Act as first point of contact with partner program/department chairs for initiation of all academic partnerships including but not limited to curriculum, revenue sharing, program development, and related student support.
• Direct needs assessments for students and may review course/instructor evaluations and act on them as needed.
• Responsible for the hiring, supervision, and assessment of staff
• Approve faculty contracts to ensure compliance with university procedures, deadlines, and availability of budgeted funds.

35% of Time the Program Director must:

• Manage and oversee processes related to the development and ongoing revisions of academic related initiatives.
• Contribute to institutional change related to student success by supporting continuous improvement action planning, assessment, and modifications.
• Conduct research and summarize data to inform decision making, evaluate program effectiveness or alternatives, and to inform program development.
• Coordinate integration of projects and track workflow to monitor progress.
• Monitor student data dashboards and compile reports related to student success.
• Establish timelines and communications with appropriate academic units and coordinate logistics.
• Review and resolve complex issues and concerns related to student academic-related issues.

5% of Time the Program Dircetor must:

• Perform other duties as assigned

• Analyze data and make budget and enrollment forecasts
• Supervisory responsibilities
• Knowledge of higher education administration
• Knowledge of adult learning theory
• Strong professional and customer service focus
• Knowledge of academic advising practices
• Experience teaching adults
• Knowledge of promotion and recruiting practices
• Ability to professionally present and market programs
• Experience directing a large program and managing multiple priorities

Master’s degree plus 5 years professional experience including 3 years leadership experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Salary $75,000 to $91,000 depending on experience. Boise State University is committed to offering a benefits package that provides health and financial protection plans as well as resources to promote health and well-being. Our program provides flexibility so you can choose the benefits that are right for you and your family. Learn more about our benefit options at https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/.

Cover letter describing your interest and qualifications for this position.
Resume or CV that includes employment history
The application interface will prompt you for the names and contact information for three professional references.
Statement of the applicant’s "Vision for University-wide, Coordinated First-Year Support” (1-2 pages)

For best consideration, please apply by March 15th.