TRIO Student Support Services Project Director

Virginia Western Community College is a two-year public institution of higher education operating under the Virginia Community College System, a statewide system of community colleges. The College operates under the policies established by the State Board for Community Colleges and the Virginia Western Community College Local Advisory Board.
Virginia Western is located on a 70-acre campus in southwest Roanoke, VA. The service region of the College includes Roanoke, Salem, Roanoke County, Craig County, Franklin County, and southern Botetourt County. The College was established in 1966 and has grown from an initial enrollment of 1,352 to its current annual enrollment of over 9,000 students in credit courses and more than 1,400 enrollments in fast-track workforce and continuing education courses.
Virginia Western Community College is seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to serve as the TRIO Project Director for our Student Support Services Program which offers eligible students (e.g., first-generation, low-income, documented disability) additional support to achieve academic success. The TRIO Project Director will oversee all administrative aspects of the program, including budget management, personnel supervision, program development, and evaluation. They will ensure compliance with federal regulations, accurate reporting to the Department of Education (DOE), and alignment with the College’s strategic goals.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Develops and implements strategic plans for the TRIO Grant Program aligned with the organizational goals and funding requirements.
• Oversees day-to-day operations, including budget management, staff supervision, and program evaluation.
• Reviews student applications, verifies eligibility and academic need, and assigns students to a TRIO Academic Success Coach.
• Manages a caseload of students, fostering a student-centered approach to support the academic and personal success of participating students.
• Collaborates with school administrators, faculty, and community partners to coordinate services and resources for TRIO program participants.
• Provides guidance and mentorship to staff members to effectively support students in achieving their goals.
• Monitors and assesses program effectiveness, making adjustments as needed to meet grant objectives.
• Stays informed about trends and best practices in student support services and higher education to enhance program delivery.

May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.

• Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, human services, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of previous experience in student support services or related field with a commitment to equity and access in education.
• Experience providing student services to a diverse student population, including students with disabilities.
• Strong leadership skills to motivate staff and collaborate with stakeholders effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for building relationships and facilitating collaboration.
• Knowledge of federal grant regulations and compliance requirements.
• Understanding of challenges facing underrepresented students and dedication to addressing systemic barriers to success.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency with student success technology platforms, data analysis, and evaluation techniques to inform decision-making and program improvement.
• Knowledge of advising and coaching principles and practices.
• Record-keeping, organizational, and time management skills.

• Doctorate degree in Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, Counseling, or related field.
• Experience providing leadership and supervision to employees.
• Extensive procurement and budget management experience.
• Extensive grant management experience.
• Experience successfully overcoming barriers similar to those faced by TRIO participants.

The selected candidate’s offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth’s Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link:  http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/

The Virginia Community College System, an EEO employer, welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and recognizes the benefits of a diverse workforce. Therefore, the VCCS is committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications. We prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, mental or physical disabilities, political affiliation, veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors.

The VCCS is an EOE and Affirmative Action Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), VCCS will provide, if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing and selection processes.

VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.