Job Description

OVERVIEW: Telluride Foundation seeks applications for a new position: Student Advocate. The principal responsibility of the Student Advocate will be to implement the goals of  a scholarship program to support potential first generation college students initially in five rural school districts: Telluride, Norwood, West End, Ridgway and Ouray; with possible expanded outreach in the future. The program will provide resources and financial support to low-income, first generation high school students to pursue and complete a college education. First Generation students are children whose parents do not have an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree.

The Student Advocate will provide direct service to students, parents and the five regional school districts in three ways: 1) work with high school guidance counselors to provide targeted support to first generation students and their families; 2) college scholarships and 3) “wrap-around” services while in college to help ensure graduation.

The goal of the program is to elevate the success of first generation students by helping them successfully get admitted to a quality four-year college, maximize their financial aid potential, and obtain a Bachelor’s Degree.

The Student Advocate position represents an outstanding opportunity for a high-performing individual to connect with students and families, work closely with school district guidance counselors and administration, develop partnerships with colleges and universities, and make a significant difference in the future of low-income, first generation students.

This unique opportunity is a full-time position with the Telluride Foundation, however with reporting responsibilities to the program donors and scholarship selection committee. The position would travel frequently within the five school districts, conduct home visits with students and parents, as well as nationally to college campuses.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT ADVOCATE

• Provide college counseling assistance to high school guidance counselors helping to foster a college-going culture.
• Provide assistance to students and their families to help them navigate through the complex process of college admissions, financial aid and matriculation.
• Conduct college readiness workshops (beginning in 9th grade) to promote a college education for first generation students and their families.
• Connect students with the resources they need to succeed in high school, including tutors, test preparation courses etc.
• Help identify prospective colleges and assist student with the completion of their college applications.
• Assist with uncovering ALL financial aid opportunities, including completing the FASFA (and CSS Profile if applicable) and applying for other appropriate scholarships.
• Ensure every first generation student knows about the program and the support it provides including financial support.
• Advocate on the student’s behalf with colleges directly.
• Serve on the scholarship selection committee.
• Research and connect students with first generation programs and services available to them at their college.
• Stay in communication with the student, their parents and their college advisors to ensure they are getting the services they need to succeed.
• Provide annual reporting, collect outcome metrics, and facilitate the evaluation of the program.

REQUIRED QUALITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Professional work experience in the fields of secondary or post-secondary education, college counseling, or college admissions.
• Proficient in office, database and social media technology and programs.
• Experience working with diverse backgrounds and serving underrepresented youth and adults, and ability to explain detailed concepts in a culturally appropriate manner.
• Knowledge and experience with the college application and selection process, including SAT preparation, FAFSA, scholarships and college financial packages.
• Fluency in Spanish a plus.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills. Willingness to travel and work flexible hours (nights/weekends).
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License with reliable transportation and car insurance, and the ability to travel in inclement weather to perform duties related to the position.

 

How to Apply

Qualified interested candidates should email the following to Paul Major, President & CEO, paul@telluridefoundation.org:

1. Cover letter
2. Current resume
3. Three current references
4. One page writing sample

Telluride Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

Bureaus: Colorado. Job Categories: Full-Time. Job Types: Operations / Administration. Salaries: 60,000 - 80,000.