Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs

Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter; current resume; and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.

This position will be posted until filled, however for priority consideration, please apply by 09/03/2025.

Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.

Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling .

Position Information

Working Title: Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs

Position Number: GA041

FLSA: Exempt

Appointment Type: Full Time

Sensitive Position: No

A sensitive position requires a fingerprint-based criminal history check.

Campus Security Authority: Yes

Designated Personnel: Yes

Statement of Economic Interest: No

Restricted Position: Yes (subject to availability of funding)

Chief Objective of Position: The Assistant Director of Orientation and Transition Programs assists in fostering campus life through the development and implementation of intentional transitional programming tailored to meet the needs of Christopher Newport Students. Reporting to the Associate Director of Orientation and Student Involvement, the Assistant Director will develop, execute, and assess programs that provide enriching transitional experiences, engage students, and enhance student overall learning and development.

Work Tasks

• Contributes to the long term vision for orientation and transition initiatives within Student Affairs.
• Supervises two Coordinators and directs the recruitment, selection, and training of the Student Directors of Orientation and Crew Leaders.
• Coordinates the planning, implementation, and evaluation of university orientation programs to include Setting Sail, Changing Tides, and Welcome Week.
• Responsible for the year long communication plan for incoming students, including management of the design and operations of the Admitted Student System (VisualZen platform), updates to the university website, Captain's Connect (Raftr), social media, email, phone, and texting communication, and any additional social platforms established by the department.
• Creates engagement opportunities for undergraduate students, with a particular focus on the first year and second year students and graduating seniors. Initiatives should demonstrate a commitment to providing inclusive offerings that appeal to students from a wide variety of backgrounds and life experiences.
• Oversees the creation and implementation of programming designed to increase a sense of belonging for all Christopher Newport University students.
• Shares in the overall direction of the department by assuming direct responsibility and supervision of specific task forces, committees and/or programs.
• Assists with departmental research and assessment efforts, specifically assessing student satisfaction, student learning outcomes, and evaluating the quality of service delivery to ascertain valuable feedback that shapes orientation. Uses information to contribute towards regular and annual departmental reports.
• Works cooperatively with administrative units in Student Affairs, Enrollment and Student Success, Admission, Auxiliary Services and personnel affiliated with student success on university retention initiatives.
• Collaborates with colleagues on individual student issues while also supporting broader departmental initiatives.
• In consultation with the Director of Orientation and Student Involvement, solicits, negotiates and executes contracts for activities and speakers performing on the CNU campus in conjunction with orientation and campus life initiatives.
• Supports major office events and initiatives, including, but not limited to: Student Leadership Awards, Senior Recognition events, Homecoming, Recognized Student Organization training and event support, Fraternity and Sorority Recruitment, and the Involvement Fair. This may include participation at night and on weekends.
• Participates in university events, such as Commencement, Move In, and special Presidential Events, that support the academic mission of the University, the work of students, the goals of student organizations, and the mission of the Student Affairs team. This may include participation at night and on weekends.
• Develops a customer service approach to more effectively promote the "students first" initiative ensuring that all constituents are served in a fast, friendly, efficient and effective manner. Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect.
• Follows workplace safety regulations and participates in accident investigation requests, reporting unsafe work conditions and incidents within 24 hours according to university, state and federal guidelines.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Must be highly motivated, innovative and creative.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines and organize work to ensure the timely delivery of services and support.
• Ability to foster positive internal and external public relations.
• Ability to work both independently and on a team; consult with faculty, administrators, students, and families.
• Ability to work nights and weekends.

Required Education

• Master's Degree or a Bachelor's degree with experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Additional Consideration - Education

• Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs Administration, Student Personnel Development, or a related field.

Experience Required

• Professional experience beyond postgraduate level.
• Experience in developing, planning, and executing programs.
• Experience collaborating with various constituents.

Additional Consideration - Experience

• Professional experience with orientation and student transition initiatives in a university setting.
• Customer service experience with a diverse population of constituents.
• Experience advising students and managing personnel and departmental resources.
• Experience developing, implementing and evaluating assessment measures.

Salary Information

Starting at $58,500, commensurate with education and experience.

Christopher Newport University is an equal opportunity employer and is fully committed to access and opportunity.

Is this position telework eligible? No

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