The University of Montana invites applications for an Assistant Director for Student Belonging. This position advances institutional retention goals by designing and implementing initiatives that strengthen student connection, engagement, and persistence. Grounded in a belonging-centered student experience framework, the role leads programming and data-informed strategies to address retention gaps across diverse student populations. Reporting to the Director for New Student Success, this role contributes to a coordinated, division-wide effort to enhance student engagement, belonging, and leadership development, while aligning transition initiatives with broader campus involvement to support a cohesive student experience. In addition to program implementation, this role serves as a strategic connector between Student Belonging and broader campus engagement efforts. The incumbent contributes data, insights, and recommendations through the Student Involvement Coordinating Group to support alignment of student involvement, leadership, and belonging programming in service of the broader Student Experience framework.
- Design and implement data-informed initiatives that promote student success, belonging, and persistence, and assess their effectiveness in collaboration with campus partners.
- Analyze retention, engagement, and campus climate data to identify student populations experiencing connection gaps and translate findings into actionable strategies.
- Lead the development and delivery of innovative transition and belonging programs, including orientation, first-year, and transfer student initiatives.
- Manage and enhance signature programs and events that serve as entry points to student engagement and foster ongoing involvement and leadership.
- Develop targeted engagement strategies for diverse student populations, including commuter, first-generation, adult, and underrepresented students.
- Collaborate with cross-campus partners to align student involvement, leadership, and belonging efforts, ensuring cohesive pathways from transition to sustained engagement.
- Supervise and support student leaders, fostering peer mentorship, leadership development, and student-driven programming.
- Build and maintain partnerships across campus and the community while supporting administrative operations, program coordination, and high-quality student and familyengagement.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
- Demonstrated excellence in communication and customer service.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within a collaborative team environment.
- Proven ability to navigate ambiguity, think creatively, and act with initiative.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Qualtrics (or similar tools).
- Ability to work evenings and weekends during peak programming periods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field (e.g., higher education, student affairs, marketing and communication).
- Experience in student affairs, orientation, advising, or related areas.
- Experience designing and implementing programs that support student belonging and success.
- Strong background in event planning and program coordination.
- Experience with marketing, communications, or student outreach strategies.
- Experience mentoring or advising college-aged students.
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate programs and build inclusive, community-centered environments.
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, MUS Contract and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.
Screening of applications will begin after the closingdate; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
- Letter of Interest –addressing the stated required skills for the position
- Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
- Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action:Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.
