SCOPE
This is a one-year Americorps VISTA appointment for the development of the newly created Social Justice and Leadership Student Retreat, co-advising a social justice student organization, and collaborating with Student Life projects that connect the areas of Multiculturalism, Leadership, and Service. The aim of these programs is to develop interconnectedness between these three areas crucial to create positive change in our society. In this capacity, the VISTA Social Justice and Leadership Coordinator will work with students, staff, and faculty to enhance social justice understanding and civic engagement opportunities on campus.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF POSITION

• Aid students in the development of the first annual Social Justice and Leadership Student Retreat, which will take place in the Spring of 2009.
• Co-advise students leaders who will coordinate the Social Justice and Leadership Student Retreat
• Co-advise the Unity Coalition, a student organization that creates awareness around social justice and diversity issues and connects students with resources to promote positive change
• Attend weekly Unity Coalition meetings and co-supervise Unity Coalition coordinators
• Develop mentorship relationships with students
• Collaborate with various offices on campus to promote social justice initiatives and education to all students
• Collaborate with Student Life staff on programs with leadership, multicultural, service and/or social justice components, as well as campus-wide events and functions
• Attend relevant regional or national service/civic engagement conference with professional development funds provided by the Student Life office

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Knowledge of and commitment to the values of social justice and the mission of St. Edward's University
• Ability to comply with workplace guidelines and attendance requirements
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, face-to-face and in on-line communities
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with and motivate a diverse group of students faculty, staff, and community partners
• Ability to advise and mentor student leaders and supervise student staff
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking skills
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Windows Office
• Successful completion of an employment and/or criminal history background check required.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Living allowance paid by the Corporation for National and Community Service Americorps VISTA Program
• End of service education award of $4,725 or cash stipend of $1,200
• Information on how to obtain affordable housing and a $200 housing stipend
• Meal allowance of $1700 in Topper Tender paid in two $850 installments
• Free campus parking pass provided by St. Edward's University
• Office and office equipment, including phone, computer, voicemail, and access to copier and printer provided by St. Edward’s University
• Campus ID with library privileges
• $1,000 in professional development funds provided for a relevant regional or national service/civic engagement conference
• Training and orientation to Austin and the St. Edward's University community
• Extensive training provided by Corporation for National Community Service and Texas Campus Compact
• Ten personal days, 10 workdays on medical leave, one week emergency leave
• Emergency health coverage
• Ability to defer student loan repayment
• Possibility of renewal of position beyond the first year

ABOUT ST. EDWARD’S UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1885 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, St. Edward’s University is a private, Catholic liberal arts institution of more than 5,300 diverse students located in Austin, Texas. It is an exciting time to be part of the St. Edward’s community, as the university pursues an ambitious plan to be recognized as one of the best small universities in the country.

HOW TO APPLY
Qualified applicants interested in applying should contact Caroline Nichols at 637-5646.

St. Edward’s University is an equal employer and hires only U.S. citizens and documented workers.

Posted: 04/22/08
Available: 7/21/08