GEARUP Program Coordinator

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Admissions, Outreach & Events, the GEAR UP Program Coordinator builds strong school and community partnerships, develops college-preparation activities, and ensures compliance with all grant and reporting requirements. The position works closely with K–12 leaders, university staff, and external stakeholders to foster college-going pathways that reflect LSSU’s values of access, equity, and educational opportunity.

Responsibilities

Design and implement grant-aligned college access, academic enrichment, career awareness, and student success initiatives for GEAR UP and KCP College Day program participants; Monitor, analyze, and report on student participation, academic performance, and college readiness benchmarks as required by GEAR UP and KCP grant requirements; Develop and coordinate on-campus experiences, including visits, workshops, and summer programming, that connect students with faculty, staff, and LSSU’s student support services; Oversee program logistics, including transportation, permissions, meals, lodging (when applicable), and risk management protocols; Manage all program budgets, reporting, invoicing, and compliance requirements in collaboration with university grants and finance staff; Attend and contribute to community and charter school meetings relevant to college access initiatives; Collaborate with the LSSU Admissions and Outreach team to align program goals with university enrollment strategies; Train and supervise student workers and volunteers supporting program delivery; Support other campus outreach and yield efforts as assigned, especially those aimed at underserved populations.; Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, higher education, or a related field; At least one year of experience working with K–12 schools, youth programs, or college access initiatives; Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills, especially with diverse populations; Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and work independently; Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends and travel to partner schools or events; Ability to maintain a flexible and demanding schedule with occasional travel; Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer; Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times (e.g., event materials); Requires mental focus, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines; Must be able to adapt to changing needs in a fast-paced and student-centered environment

Nice to have

Experience with CRM or student information systems (e.g., Banner); Two or more years of experience working with first-generation students, underrepresented youth, or tribal education systems; Familiarity with federal and state grant programs such as GEAR UP, TRIO, or KCP initiatives; Experience facilitating workshops or youth development programming