Date Posted: March 3, 2023

Posting Deadline: March 17, 2023 **Closing extended until March 27, 2023**

Department: Student Affairs and Services

Type of Employment: Permanent, Full-time

Group Affiliation: APC Group, Group 5 ($57,127 - $73,621 annually)

At Saint Mary's University, you will be surrounded by a talented and dedicated team of professionals committed to accessibility, diversity, and the provision of a positive and supportive learning environment. We recognize the importance of the contribution and growth of each individual in the University's success. We are currently looking to fill the position of Black Student Advisor to join our Student Affairs and Services team.

In support of the University's Employment Equity and Diversity Program, this position is designated for candidates who identify as African Nova Scotian or Black.

What we offer

As a team member at Saint Mary's, we are proud to offer many benefits. Some of these include:

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Defined Contribution Pension plan
• Vacation
• Personal days
• Flexible Workplace
• Professional development
• Holiday closure
• Summer hour schedule

Job Information and Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Assistant Director, Student Culture and Experience, the Black Student Advisor will:

• Support and engage African Nova Scotian and Black students.
• Establish professional relationships with students to foster trust and understanding while recognizing opportunities to educate and inform in a respectful manner.
• Plan programs, events and services to anticipate the above challenges and take steps to allow students to avoid or effectively address these challenges.
• Identify and develop partnerships with relevant student organizations, faculty, offices and staff on campus who would be useful partners in supporting students.
• Engage faculty and staff in training programs, initiatives, sessions or events to build relationships between students and faculty/staff and foster opportunities for students to learn about services and opportunities available at Saint Mary's.
• Develop programs and initiatives on campus that raise awareness, understanding and appreciation of African Nova Scotian/Black student's experiences, cultures and traditions.
• Identify external organizations, communities, and contacts that would be relevant supports and contacts for African Nova Scotian/Black students including, but not limited to, Delmore Buddy Daye Centre, the Black Educators Association, related church-based organizations, the Black Cultural Centre, East Preston Empowerment Committee, related Provincial and Federal offices and committees.
• Through professional development and sitting on external committees, maintain a current understanding of best practices and trends in African Nova Scotian and Black student services provincially, nationally and internationally.
• Work with relevant internal and external stakeholders on topics related to equity and diversity for African Nova Scotian and Black Students.

Experience and Education Requirements

To be the successful Black Student Advisor you will have:

• Completion of an Undergraduate Degree.
• Minimum of three to five years directly related experience, preferably at the post-secondary level working with African Nova Scotians, Black people or organizations that work with or on behalf of African Nova Scotian/Black communities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the issues and concerns facing African Nova Scotian and Black youth.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to participate in consultative decision making.
• Demonstrated experience in developing programs for youth.
• Demonstrated skills in training and program evaluation.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office, Access, internet and e-mail applications.
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills.
• Strong organizational and event planning skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills.
• Background in cross cultural communication would be considered an asset.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends.

Application Details

Apply for this opportunity online using our online application system through Career Beacon. Click on "Apply Now" and complete all required information fields. Qualified candidates should submit the following with their application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References

Late applications may not receive consideration. We appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls please.

At Saint Mary's University, equity and diversity are integral to excellence and enrich our community. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however in support of the University's Employment Equity and Diversity Program, this position is designated for candidates who identify as African Nova Scotian or Black. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition at [email protected].