Location: Academic Administration
Hours: Full-Time, Salary
Pay: Based on experience Position Summary:
Southern Adventist University is seeking a dedicated and student-centered TRIO Program Advisor to join our federally funded Student Support Services (SSS) program. The TRIO Program Advisor will work directly with eligible students to support their academic success, persistence, and graduation. This role includes advising, programming coordination, student coaching, and facilitating graduate school and career readiness. Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct academic, financial, and career advising to SSS program participants
• Coordinate and chaperone cultural enrichment activities, graduate school visits, and career exploration events
• Assist with student development workshops and retention initiatives
• Monitor student progress and support persistence, GPA improvement, and graduation goals
• Maintain detailed and accurate student records in compliance with program guidelines
• Support grant reporting, data collection, and program evaluation activities
• Collaborate with campus departments and external partners to connect students with additional resources

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree required in Higher Education, Social Work, Education, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Master’s Degree preferred.

Work Experience:

• Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant professional experience working in a TRIO program or similar academic support program for disadvantaged or at-risk college students.
• Experience in:
  • Coordinating and supervising educational visits, cultural events, and related programming
  • Advising students on graduate school admissions and financial aid processes
  • Utilizing spreadsheets and managing databases
• Demonstrated professional or personal experience overcoming barriers similar to those faced by program participants.

Preferred Experience and Training:

• Formal training or work experience with programming that:
  • Promotes the persistence of SSS-eligible students from year to year
  • Improves academic standing and GPA outcomes for students
  • Enhances college completion rates
• Background in effective student coaching, including:
  • Financial aid navigation
  • Career readiness and employer skills
  • Internship preparation
  • Financial literacy education
  • Goal setting, time management, self-advocacy, and study skills coaching

Special Requirements:  An expressed commitment to Jesus Christ, the teachings and mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, an SDA church member in regular standing.  
 
Typical Physical Demands:  Requires sitting, standing, bending and reaching. May require lifting up to 25 pounds. Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate standard office machines such as computers, fax machines, calculators, and telephone. Requires a normal range of hearing and vision.

Working Conditions:  Essential tasks are performed under standard office/school conditions with little or no noticeable discomfort. Work area is well lighted and ventilated.
Hiring for this position is contingent on grant funding.