TRIO Talent Search Project Advisor

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students faculty and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institutions mission. The principles are Innovation Spiritual Formation Integrity Diversity & Inclusion and Excellence.

The TRIO Talent Search Project Advisor supports the academic personal and career development of middle and high school students who qualify for services under the federal TRIO Talent Search Program. This role provides direct advising college and career readiness programming and individualized guidance to help students persist in school graduate and pursue postsecondary education. The Advisor works closely with school personnel community partners parents and the TRIO team to ensure high-quality program delivery and compliance with U.S. Department of Education guidelines.

Responsibilities

Provide academic personal social and career advising to eligible Talent Search participants.

Assist students in developing educational plans setting goals and identifying barriers to success.

Conduct needs assessments and maintain individualized service plans for each participant.

Offer guidance on academic course selection graduation requirements and skill-building strategies.

Deliver workshops and presentations on college readiness financial literacy career exploration and study skills.

Assist students with college admission processes including applications essays and resume preparation.

Support students and families with completing FAFSA scholarship applications and financial aid forms.

Coordinate campus tours career field trips college fairs and enrichment activities.

Maintain accurate student records in accordance with federal TRIO regulations.

Document service contacts and program outcomes in the approved data management system.

Assist with recruitment and eligibility verification of new participants.

Support the collection and reporting of data for the Annual Performance Report (APR) submitted to the U.S. Department of Education.

Serve as a liaison between the university partnering schools and community organizations.

Participate in school meetings resource fairs and student support sessions as needed.

Build and maintain positive relationships with parents teachers counselors and administrators.

Assist in the design and implementation of summer programs college prep activities and STEM or leadership workshops.

Contribute to curriculum development for academic enrichment sessions.

Support program-wide events including orientations award ceremonies and outreach campaigns.

Attend staff meetings trainings and professional development sessions.

Collaborate with the TRIO Talent Search Director and staff to ensure program goals and objectives are met.

Uphold confidentiality and ethical standards when working with minors and student records.

Education

Bachelors degree in Education Counseling Social Work Psychology or related field.

Experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds including first-generation and low-income populations.

Knowledge of college admissions financial aid and academic advising.

Strong communication organizational and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work independently travel to partner schools and manage multiple priorities.

Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Preferred

Masters degree in Education Counseling or related discipline.

Experience working with TRIO or other federally funded outreach programs.

Background in academic coaching student support services or K12 school settings.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns please contact

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race color religion sex national origin sexual orientation disability gender identity protected veteran status or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University visit VUU About Page.