First Generation Student Program Coordinator Jobs

The First Generation Student Services Coordinator strengthens a thriving first-generation community by leading proactive outreach and collaborating with campus partners to develop programs grounded in best and promising practices. Drawing on student development theory, higher education best practices, and university data, the position designs initiatives that foster connection, expand opportunities for engagement, and support student success.

This position supervises student Peer Navigators and supports them in creating experiences that build community, encourage co-curricular involvement, and promote career readiness. As a key member of the First-Generation Student Staff, this position advances an asset-based approach that recognizes first-generation students as leaders, contributors, and valued members of the Boise State community. 

Responsibilities include creating opportunities for students to share their perspectives, leadership, and experiences in ways that enrich the broader university community.

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance and assistance to entry level professionals and/or support employees.

75% of time the position must:

• Coordinate a First-Generation student program that celebrates student contributions and builds community. This includes marketing that highlights First-Generation students and community members, recruiting participants through outreach, facilitating engaging events, and tracking progress toward program objectives.
• Develop and maintain co-curricular opportunities that encourage leadership development, community engagement, and meaningful participation in campus life.
• Network with student organization leaders and professional peers across Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, and academic units. 
  • Strengthen relationships with partners such as TRIO, Advising and Academic Support Center, Career Services, New Student Programs, the College of Arts and Sciences, and Community Engagement and Belonging to expand opportunities that support engagement, leadership development, and success for First-Generation Broncos.
• Serve as the primary academic coach for First-Generation students seeking support through SCSC. Help students leverage their existing skills and experiences as they pursue academic, personal, and professional goals.
• Hire, develop, and support Peer Navigators whose work contributes to First-Generation student success. Provide coaching that encourages leadership development, professional growth, and meaningful contributions to SCSC programs and initiatives.

20% of time the position must:

• Create digital and print materials that highlight the talents, identities, and contributions of First-Generation Broncos.
• Promote programs and services in ways that reflect student experiences and contributions while aligning with departmental and university brand practices.
• Take the lead in presentations, resource fairs, and programs relating to Orientation. Engage students and families with a welcoming presence that fosters connection, engagement, and a sense of belonging from the start.
• Maintain a strong understanding of services offered by SCSC staff, Counseling Services, Student Outreach and Assistance, Veterans Services, the Educational Access Center, and Student Basic Needs. Use this knowledge to make warm referrals that help students access resources and support aligned with their goals.
• Lead efforts to coordinate First-Generation cording ceremonies each fall and spring. Create experiences that honor student achievement, recognize the support of families and communities, and celebrate the various pathways students take to graduation.
• Collaborate with supervisor to prepare and steward an annual budget for First-Generation programming. Allocate resources in ways that expand opportunities, support meaningful engagement, and advance program goals.
• Regularly participate in divisional, university, and department initiatives and events. Contribute expertise related to First-Generation student engagement and success while advancing divisional goals and priorities.
• Assist university offices and Student Affairs and Enrollment Management units during peak periods such as Bronco Welcome, Residence Hall check-in, Convocation, and Commencement. Create welcoming experiences that help students and families feel connected, informed, and valued from the start.

5% of time the position must:

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge of:

• A strong foundation in both foundational and contemporary theories of student development, with the ability to translate those frameworks into practice in ways that honor students' lived experiences and capacity for growth.
• An understanding of federal and state guidelines such as FERPA, Clery, Title IX, purchasing policies, and confidentiality standards for licensed mental health professionals, and the ability to apply them in ways that promote a safe, student-centered environment.
• A commitment to ethical practice that emphasizes dignity, respect, agency, and access, guiding decisions that promote student growth and opportunity.

The ability to:

• Design and coordinate programs that engage students through community-building, connection, and identity development practices, supported by current research and data on serving First-Generation college students.
• Build meaningful relationships with students from a variety of backgrounds while recognizing the experiences and perspectives each student brings.
• Thrive both independently and in team settings, contributing to group efforts and partnering effectively with professionals across disciplines to advance shared goals and student-centered initiatives.
• Approach complex situations with integrity, reflection, and care, centering student dignity and well-being in decision-making.
• Help students recognize that the skills required to navigate college systems are extensions of the resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities that brought them to college.
• Create welcoming, relationship-centered experiences and provide warm referrals that connect students to resources, opportunities, and meaningful campus relationships.
• Use reflection and problem-solving to understand student goals, identify opportunities, and partner with students in developing meaningful pathways toward success.
• Bring creativity, resilience, and a growth mindset to a department that is continually innovating. Respond to change with optimism and flexibility, contributing positively to new ideas, improved services, and a culture of continuous learning.

Skilled in:

• Recognizing the potential in supervisees and supporting their growth. This includes identifying talent, developing team members through coaching and feedback, and helping them step confidently into their roles.
  
• Designing, promoting, and offering social and educational experiences that celebrate transfer and first-generation students while fostering connection, community, and engagement.
  
• Using written and verbal communication to ensure students feel informed, connected, and empowered to engage with opportunities across campus.
  
• Collecting and interpreting data to inform program improvements, demonstrate impact, and identify opportunities to enhance student engagement and success.
  
• Providing coaching that encourages leadership development, professional growth, and meaningful contributions to SCSC programs and initiatives.
  
• Creating efficient processes and reliable follow-through that help students focus on their goals, opportunities, and growth.

Bachelor's Degree and 2 years of professional experience or equivalent relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Leadership, Communications, or a related field.
• Experience using a campus engagement platform such as CampusGroups, Engage, or a similar system.
• Experience supporting programs or services specifically designed for first-generation college students.
• Experience using assessment data, participation data, or student feedback to evaluate and improve programs.
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Please submit the following:

• Cover letter indicating your interest and qualifications for this position
• Resume detailing your employment history, and
• Three (3) professional references, including at least one current or former direct supervisor

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We're a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We're building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho's Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/