UMD Upward Bound Vision Quest Project Coordinator

This position is based in the Twin Cities. This is primarily an in-person position.

The Upward Bound Vision Quest program is a federally funded college preparatory program for low-income and first-generation high school students that serves a total of 135 students in four high schools in Minneapolis, Minnesota and one in Duluth, Minnesota. The Upward Bound Vision Quest program works with students, parents, schools and the community to develop partnerships and provide services and support that promote participant success. Services are offered on site in the target schools and are designed to prepare students to succeed in applying for, and finishing postsecondary education.

In partnership with the Project Director, the Project Coordinator provides programmatic oversight of the delivery of project support services. The Project Coordinator is responsible for the development of project curriculum, planning and implementation of project events, recordkeeping, data-reporting, co-leads the annual summer program with the Project Director, assists with the supervision of work study and temporary summer staff, and conducts evaluation of project services.

The Project Coordinator will supervise and work with Academic Advisors based in the target schools to monitor and document the academic success and progress of program participants, and to provide support and make changes when necessary.

Project Coordination (40%)

• Design and implement program events and coordinate logistics of monthly events including but not limited to scheduling transportation, securing chaperones, obtaining adequate parent/guardian permission, working with Academic Advisors and the Student Services Specialist to prepare and inform students, ordering and paying for meals, and ensuring compliance with liability standards and federal regulations.
• Assist with student recruitment including making presentations at target schools, meeting with prospective students and families, representing the program at open houses and other school/community events, evaluating student applications, and supporting Academic Advisors and the Student Services Specialist with recruitment efforts at target schools.
• Represent Upward Bound Vision Quest while developing partnerships with Minneapolis and Duluth public schools and other community agencies that work with a similar population of students to increase efficiencies in support and services, in addition to developing new and effective means of engaging students.
• Lead and make thoughtful decisions while at the target schools and during project events in the Project Director's absence.

Develop, Implement, Evaluate Academic Services, and provide Academic Support (25%)

• Provide academic advising to UBVQ participants at assigned target high school(s). Provide mentorship and support to UBVQ Academic Advisors and the Student Services Specialist.
• Develop, assess, and update UBVQ college access curriculum with Project Director and UBVQ staff.
• Coordinate ACT preparation workshops.
• Develop and maintain program forms, handbooks, and manuals.
• Develop and/or administer instruments to assess student participation and academic skill levels for summer program academic courses.
• Track student attainment of rigorous curriculum, attendance, and participation.

Coordinate and Supervise the Annual UBVQ Summer Program (20%)

• Plan and work the annual Summer Program in partnership with the Project Director.
• Lead the residential portion of the summer program, including residing at the residential hall for up to 6 weeks and chaperoning any out-of-state trips during the summer program.
• Identify and contract with qualified instructors to teach during the summer program and assist with the hiring of residential and day support staff.
• Lead the Summer Food Service Program through the Minnesota Department of Education.
• Assist with the training and supervision of temporary summer program staff.

Reporting (10%)

• Maintain project Student Access database.
• Assist Project Director in completing the Annual Program Performance Report.
• Manage, track and reconcile student monthly performance stipends.
• Create reports for stakeholders on project impact and student progress.
• Assist with reconciling grant-approved expenses through the University's Enterprise Financial System.

Other (5%)

• Attend staff meetings and one-on-one meetings.
• Participant in necessary training and professional development.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS in education or related field and three or more years of related professional experience.
• Experience working with low income, first generation youth from diverse backgrounds in an educational setting.
• Some supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in education or related field.
• Experience working in or being a member of a federal TRIO program.
• Minimum of three years of experience working with low income, first generation youth in an educational setting.
• Experience in developing and leading college access workshops.
• Language skills in any of the following languages: Spanish, Somali, Oromo, or Amharic.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task and implement programming and activities.
• Demonstrated understanding of college preparation and intervention services.
• Advanced skill in managing an online database, creating and maintaining spreadsheets, and with the Google and Microsoft Office suite of programs.

Pay Range: $48,000 - $53,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Finalists will be asked to provide references.

Application review will begin Feb 17, 2025. For a completed application, please include a resume and cover letter. This position will stay open until filled.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).