Assistant Director of Student Professional Development

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.

Deadline: Review of applications begins on 01/29/2026. This position will remain posted until filled.

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 .

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to access and opportunity.

Position Overview

Assistant Director of Student Professional Development (Position Number FA429) - Full Time, Exempt, FLSA. Not a Sensitive or Restricted Position. This role is responsible for the implementation, management, and oversight of professional development initiatives for all undergraduate and graduate students. It also supports enrollment management, orientation, social media, internships, career services, and scholarship programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage undergraduate and graduate student professional development, including on- and off-campus speaker engagement.
• Coordinate the Luter Signature Scholars program, tracking events, attendance, and progress communication.
• Plan and administer the mentorship program for undergraduate and graduate students.
• Promote internship and job opportunities in collaboration with the Center for Career Planning; track completion and student success.
• Oversee scholarship awards, including application review and distribution; chair the scholarship committee.
• Work closely with the Center for Career Planning to ensure delivery of effective programming and services.
• Assist faculty with student competitions and clubs.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate student assistants in program administration.
• Advise pre business and transfer students on study plans and orientation.
• Prepare data requests, internal data collection, and external reports related to student success.
• Participate in event planning, serve as Co Chair of the Luter Connect networking dinner, and coordinate the new student orientation program.
• Assist in marketing materials and social media content development.
• Plan and participate in alumni engagement activities.
• Follow workplace safety regulations and report unsafe conditions.
• Maintain a professional, customer service oriented approach, supporting CNU's "Student's First" value.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's)

• Excellent written, spoken, and presentation communication skills.
• Competence in computer/software applications and social media platforms.
• Strong understanding of business operations and relationships.
• Leadership, mentoring, and project execution abilities.
• Experience building business relationships and promoting innovative ideas.
• Availability for occasional evening and weekend work.

Educational Requirements

Master's degree or bachelor's degree with work experience equating to an advanced degree.

Professional certification related to professional development, career counseling, advising, or student success is an additional consideration.

Experience Requirements

• Experience in advising, mentoring, or coaching, and establishing strong relationships with the business community.

Additional Experience Considerations

• Event planning and execution experience.
• Conducting professional development services, advising, and designing workshops or orientations.
• Program development experience (budgeting, fundraising, staff and volunteer supervision).

Salary Information

Starting at $58,519, commensurate with education and experience.

Telework Eligibility

Eligible for periodic telework as determined by the department. Eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to supervisor approval. Employees will be required to sign a Telework Agreement.

Posting Information

Posting Number: AP444P
Posting Date: 01/07/2026
Review Begin Date: 01/29/2026

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

• Other Application Materials
• Other Application Materials
• Other Application Materials
• Other Application Materials
• Contact Information for at Least Three References

Contact

1 Avenue of the Arts
Newport News, VA 23606
P:
F: