Director, Academic Advising
Full-Time / Posted May 14, 2026
SUMMARY
The Director, Academic Advising will work as a member of the Academic and Career Development (ACD) team within the Academic Enhancement Division at Gannon University - Ursuline College Campus. The Director will provide quality academic advising and coaching services to various populations of undergraduate students, especially freshmen and students experiencing barriers, to increase undergraduate student persistence and retention. The Director reports directly to the Executive Director and works closely with other members of the department and undergraduate faculty advisors and other university student support offices. Must be able to support the University’s Mission and Service Standards Framework. This position is located in Pepper Pike, Ohio, at Gannon University’s Ursuline College Campus.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist first time, full-time students with proactive academic planning based on their strengths and needs including working with at-risk students.
- Act as an advisor/coach and resource to any undergraduate student in need; which includes but not limited to; assist in building schedules, explaining academic policies and procedures, discussing major exploration, and referring students to university resources as needed.
- In collaboration with ACD team, plan, promote and participate in activities to encourage students to successfully complete their degree and develop personal awareness.
- Collaborate with all advisors (professional and faculty) to support students on academic warning/early alert referrals through programming, coaching, and providing resources.
- Advise/coach a case load of undergraduate students.
- Generate, maintain, and use academic records, including databases and spreadsheets. Maintain confidentiality of student records and assessments.
- Assist Executive Director in updating policies/procedures according to NACADA best practices.
- Assist Executive Director in collecting and analyzing retention data to set data informed retention strategies.
- Participate in university events, including but not limited to orientation, admitted student events, convocation, graduation, and university committees, etc.
- Participate in department events, such as Career Fair, Major Mixer, etc.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A master’s degree is required in a related field, e.g., higher education, education, or student personnel. Experience/Certification in academic coaching preferred.
Experience: At least five (5) years of experience in academic advising/academic coaching and student support services at the college/university level are required.
Licenses and Certifications: Although not required, certifications in academic coaching, or career services and administering personality inventories (e.g., Myers-Briggs, etc.) will be considered favorable.
Interpersonal Skills: Excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills, including small group presentation skills.
Knowledge: Current theories and practices in higher education student development, retention, academic and career advising/coaching, and student support services.
Computer Skills: Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Instagram, Canva, and PowerPoint; ability to operate standard office equipment.
Evening hours may be required to provide all students with access to ACD department resources. Occasional weekend hours for university events and activities such as Convocation, Commencement, New Student Orientation, and undergraduate Open House are expected.
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified candidates should use the form below or email a letter of interest and current resume to kknaus@ursuline.edu. Review of applications to begin immediately and continue until position is filled.
