Assistant Director for Veteran Student Success and Community Engagement

Daemen University is a dynamic, independent, liberal arts institution committed to excellence in student centered learning. The University places special emphasis on preparing students for excellence in professional life, civic engagement, and on instilling and understanding that learning is an exciting lifelong journey. Students are encouraged to be creative, innovative, ethically minded leaders for an ever-changing, diverse, and interconnected world.

The Mission of Daemen University is to prepare students for life and leadership in an increasingly diverse and complex world through the integration of education and professional preparation. Daemen University is going beyond instrumental needs to foster the development of individuals who are dedicated to the health and well-being of local and global communities.

Purpose of Role

The Assistant Director of Student & Community Engagement plays a vital role in supporting the success, persistence, and belonging of veteran and military-affiliated students (V/MAS) at Daemen University. This position bridges campus and community engagement through outreach, program development, advising, and collaborative partnerships. The Assistant Director will advance the mission of the HOPE Center by promoting connection, inclusion, and student development both on and off campus.

The Assistant Director will serve as a liaison between Daemen University and local, state, and national veteran organizations; participate in educational fairs and community events; and foster opportunities that strengthen Daemen's presence in the Western New York region and beyond. The position also contributes to the management of the Veterans Success Center, assisting as a secondary School Certifying Official (SCO) to ensure seamless access to VA benefits.

About This Opportunity

Student Support & Development

• Provide direct support, advising, and mentorship to veteran and military-affiliated students (V/MAS), helping them navigate their transition to higher education and promoting persistence through graduation.

• Assist students with understanding and accessing their VA education benefits, tuition assistance programs, and community resources.

• Serve as a secondary School Certifying Official (SCO) and maintain compliance with Department of Veterans Affairs reporting and annual training requirements.

• Collaborate with the Student Veterans of America Chapter (SVA) to foster leadership, engagement, and advocacy among V/MAS.

• Develop and facilitate campus programming that celebrates and addresses the unique experiences of student veterans and military-aligned students, enhancing visibility, belonging, and community on campus.

Community Outreach & Engagement

• Conduct proactive outreach (approximately 50% of the role) across Western New York and regional military bases to promote Daemen's academic programs and veterans' benefits.

• Represent Daemen University at military education fairs, community events, and college collaborations to build strong partnerships with veteran organizations and prospective students.

• Network with local, state, and national veteran-focused organizations to develop partnerships, sponsorships, and volunteer initiatives that expand resources and opportunities for students.

• Develop and implement community engagement initiatives that connect Daemen's campus community to regional service opportunities and professional development experiences.

• Support Director and Enrollment team in creation and implement of strategic recruitment plans

• Partner with Enrollment team at local fairs and recruitment events

Program Management & Administration

• Help manage the daily operations of the Veterans Success Center and Nancy Haberman Gacioch Veterans Lounge, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment.

• Supervise, train, and support VA/Daemen Federal Work-Study students, including oversight of timecard submissions and scheduling.

• Collect and report data related to student engagement, outreach activities, and program effectiveness.

• Support the HOPE Center's overall initiatives in advancing institutional equity, inclusion, and belonging through collaborative events and student-centered programming.

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