Assistant Dean for First-Generation Student Success

Job Description

When was the last time you changed the world?

In Virginia Tech’s Division of Student Affairs, that’s exactly what we’re doing every day—guiding, nurturing, and supporting students as they learn and grow into the leaders and world-changers of today and tomorrow.

We are currently searching for an Assistant Dean for First Generation Student Success! So, if you, or you know someone who is passionate about assisting First Generation College Students thrive, please apply or share with others.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ROLE:
1) You’ll be joining the Dean of Students team; a department committed to offering care and support to students in flourishing personally, academically, and socially.
2) You’ll be reporting to an Associate Dean of Students, in a Regular twelve-month, 100% administrative professional appointment. 
3) You’ll support and engage first-generation college students through targeted services, outreach, and programming, and supervise a professional and student team to build a strong network of support for first-generation students to thrive.   
4) You’ll have the chance to grow and take advantage of a developmental plan with opportunities to advance within the Department and the Division.
5) You’ll be offered a base compensation package between $65,000-$75,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package which includes health insurance, paid leave, retirement, tuition assistance, VT discounts, and so much more!

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY:
THE UNIVERSITY: Virginia tech as an employer is committed to developing well-rounded employees who are active members of the university community as well as the community at-large. From comprehensive insurance plans to tuition assistance, Virginia Tech offers employees a variety of benefits and perks to help team members build a fuller and more balanced life.
THE DIVISION: For our students and ourselves, the Division of Student Affairs believes that changing the world requires courageous leadership and commitment to curiosity, integrity, civility, and service to others. Our culture is defined by a commitment to our aspirations for student learning.
THE TEAM: When life throws challenges in students’ way, we’re here to help them create plans, connect to resources, and gain the confidence to get back on track. We work with students, families, friends, and faculty. We’re a friendly, caring team ready to listen and assist.

Required Qualifications
• Master’s degree
• Professional experience supporting and assisting students
• Demonstrated experience leading others
• Demonstrated interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with a variety of different student populations
• Experience working collaboratively with others

Preferred Qualifications
• Prior work with first-generation student programs and support initiatives.
• Experience in student or academic affairs or student support services.
• Prior program development, case management, or staff supervision experience
• Familiarity with relevant software systems (e.g., EAB Navigate, Banner, Maxient)
• Familiarity with care and support frameworks and/or student development theory

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$65,000 - $75,000

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, some nights and weekend responsibilities 

Hours per week

40

Review Date

02/18/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, contact the Office for Civil Rights Compliance and Prevention Education at 540-231-2010 or Virginia Tech, 220 Gilbert Street, Suite 5200, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Kimberly Gautier at kgautier@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.