HEOP Counselor - University of Mount Saint Vincent

Founded by the Sisters of Charity of New York, the University of Mount Saint Vincent is an academically excellent, authentically inclusive, Catholic and ecumenical liberal arts University. The University combines a strong core curriculum with a full array of majors in the liberal arts and, within the tradition of liberal education, selected professional fields of study.

At Mount Saint Vincent, a student’s education extends beyond knowledge, skills, and preparation for work. We seek the development of the whole person. In the spirit of Vincent de Paul and Elizabeth Ann Seton, we foster an understanding of our common humanity, a commitment to human dignity, and a full appreciation of our obligations to each other.

Through its School of Professional and Continuing Studies, the University extends its primary undergraduate mission by offering high quality graduate studies in business, education and nursing and an array of undergraduate and certificate programs serving non-traditional students.

HEOP Program Description

The Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) is a partnership between the College of Mount Saint Vincent and the New York State Education Department (NYSED). This program is tailored for students with the potential and determination to pursue higher education but who lack the academic or financial resources to access college opportunities. The primary aim of HEOP is to support, retain, and graduate talented students, equipping them for success in college and beyond

Responsibilities:

The HEOP Counselor provides individual and group advising to assigned HEOP students, delivering programming focused on enhancing academic success. Key responsibilities include conducting academic skills assessments, evaluating coursework, and offering support, motivation, and guidance to assist students in decision-making. Reporting directly to the HEOP Director, this is a full-time, exempt, on-site position with standard working hours from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends is required to support programs, activities, conferences, and training sessions.

• Provide academic, personal, financial, crisis, and career advisement to support the retention and graduation of assigned HEOP students, ensuring accurate and up-to-date case files for each student.
• Assist in planning, coordinating, and implementing the four-to-five-week HEOP Summer Program.
• Attend weekly staff meetings, one-on-one meetings with the HEOP Director, professional development sessions, and serve on College committees as assigned.
• Represent HEOP at relevant university events and activities.
• Collaborate as part of the departmental team while supporting the Oxley Integrated Advising Program.
• Guide students in course selection, registration, and academic and career planning, working in partnership with faculty and Oxley advisors.
• Address financial aid concerns by collaborating with the Office of Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and the Registrar to ensure students meet all institutional and federal deadlines and complete necessary paperwork.
• Design and lead workshops and activities covering a range of topics, including academic, social, career, personal, financial, and cultural development.
• Participate in program assessment activities and contribute to state reporting on HEOP student progress and program evaluation.
• Monitor student progress through regular communication with faculty, tutors, staff, and administrators.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the HEOP Director.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a social science or counseling-related field is required; a master’s degree is preferred.
• Experience: At least one year of experience in higher education counseling, preferably working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Interpersonal Skills: A strong interest in working with college students and the ability to connect with a diverse student population. Must possess an energetic, engaging, and positive personality that encourages students to seek guidance and actively participate in the program.
• Communication and Organizational Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational abilities, and keen attention to detail.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong computer skills with the ability to quickly learn new software. Knowledge of systems such as Banner, Argos, Canvas, EAB, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office is preferred.
• Project and Time Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, demonstrating strong project management and time management skills.
• Professionalism: Adherence to the highest standards of professionalism, with active listening skills and the ability to work as part of a team while maintaining appropriate boundaries with students.
• Availability: Full availability from June through August for the preparation and implementation of the HEOP Summer Program.

Benefits

The allotted salary for this position is $62,400.

• 20 Vacation Days, 12 sick days
• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Enhanced Short Term Disability Insurance
• 100% employer sponsored Long Term Disability
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Contribution in a 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program