Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants must attach one document in a PDF format and labeled by last name, and first name. Please note that the applicant tracking system does not convert attachments in Word format successfully.

Candidates must submit one PDF in this order:

• a cover letter (maximum one page)
• a resume or curriculum vitae
• names with emails and phone numbers for the three most recent direct supervisors to serve as references

About Us

Located in an urban environment on a 300-acre tree-lined campus, Rice University is a private, comprehensive research university located in the heart of the dynamic Museum District in Houston, TX, the most diverse city in the country and home to vibrant Latinx, Asian-American, Black, LGBTQ+, and international communities. Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, and the metro area is characterized by a robust civil society with top elected positions in the region held by a diverse group of officials--left, right, and center, and including Asian-American, Black, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ leaders. Rice offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across eight schools and has a student body of approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 3,900 graduate students. The university's undergraduate population has no racial majority. Rice consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities and the top 10 in undergraduate teaching (US News & World Report); its endowment ranks among the top 20 of US universities.

We encourage everyone to apply, especially those individuals who have been historically underrepresented in academia: people of color, LGBTQ+ people, women, people with disabilities, veterans, and people of any age or family status. We strive to actively counter prejudice and to create a working environment that is inclusive and equitable.

Position Summary

The Assistant Director, DEI for Student Engagement, is a dynamic leadership role centered on cultivating an inclusive environment for students while also spearheading initiatives that extend the reach of diversity, equity, and inclusion across the entire campus community. In addition to championing a robust, living-learning environment, this position plays a pivotal role in fostering awareness of DEI issues in higher education throughout the university.

Collaborating closely with various campus stakeholders, including students, staff, and faculty, the Assistant Director takes a holistic approach to developing and implementing programs, policies, and initiatives that promote inclusivity. The role actively contributes to building a broader campus environment that encourages inquiry, facilitates meaningful conversations, and promotes a sense of belonging for everyone. By providing guidance, resources, and advocacy, the Assistant Director ensures a safe and affirming experience for all students while actively contributing to the development of a campus culture that values diversity and fosters mutual understanding.

The ideal candidate for the Assistant Director, DEI for Student Engagement, is a dynamic and passionate leader with a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment. They possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse populations. The candidate has a track record of developing and implementing impactful DEI initiatives and educational programs within higher education. Additionally, they demonstrate thoughtfulness, adaptability, and resilience in responding to crises, conflicts, and incidents of bias, ensuring a safe and affirming experience for all students.

Workplace Requirements:

• This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating duties to be performed in-person on-campus. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.
• Frequent evening and weekend work
• This is an exempt position. During some weeks, employees will be required to work more hours to meet their job responsibilities.
• This role is classified as an essential position, requiring on-site presence to effectively carry out its vital functions.

Salary: $60,000

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Two years of related experience
• Skills Required
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Excellent communication skills, including written, oral, and visual
  • Advising high-level student leaders in 1-1 setting
  • Ability to apply student development theories and best practices in residential life
  • Ability to manage events and programs
  • Ability to instruct students in risk management and program planning
• Must live in a university provided apartment, currently at the Rice Village Apartments, located less than 1.5 miles from campus.

Preferences

• Master's degree in student affairs, higher education administration, counseling, or a related field is preferred but is not a requirement
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of diverse identities, experiences, and issues within higher education
• Experience working with diverse communities and creating inclusive environments
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse populations
• Experience developing and implementing educational programs and initiatives
• Ability to respond effectively to crises, conflicts, and incidents of bias or discrimination
• Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to DEI issues in higher education
• Strong organizational and project management skills

Essential Functions

• Supports department and area mission vision and goals
• Advises and guides student leaders in the planning and implementation of program and event logistics, including risk management
• Coordinates leadership development programming for student leaders
• Responsible for logistics and marketing related to area(s) of responsibility
• May supervise student, staff, and interns as necessary
• Develop and implement educational and social programs that address the needs and experiences of diverse students within the residential community. These programs may include workshops, discussion groups, training sessions, and cultural events.
• Establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with student organizations, campus resource centers, and community organizations to enhance support and advocacy efforts.
• Work closely with campus partners to coordinate programming, promote resources, and raise awareness of DEI issues.
• Facilitate the development of affirming communities within the residential colleges.
• Foster an environment where diverse students feel safe, supported, and connected to their peers.
• Organize social events, affinity groups, and programming that promote a sense of belonging and foster community engagement.
• Conduct regular assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of DEI programming and initiatives within the residential life program.
• Collect data, analyze trends, and prepare reports to inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement.

Additional Functions

• Collaborate with campus administrators to review and develop inclusive policies and practices related to DEI issues within the residential life program.
• Advocate for the needs and concerns of diverse students, ensuring their voices are represented in decision-making processes.
• Provide training and educational resources for residential staff to increase their understanding of diverse identities, experiences, and best practices for creating inclusive residential environments.
• Facilitate ongoing professional development opportunities to promote cultural competency and sensitivity.
• Offer individual support and mentorship to diverse students within the residential community.
• Serve as a resource for information, referrals, and guidance on navigating campus resources and support services.
• Collaborate with counseling and health services to address the unique mental health and well-being needs of diverse students.
• Provide support and resources to address crises, conflicts, and incidents of bias or discrimination within the residential community. Collaborate with appropriate campus offices, such as Title IX SAFE Office, Student Judicial Programs, and the Office of Access, Equity and Equal Opportunity to ensure appropriate responses and follow-up.
• Stay informed about current research, best practices, and emerging trends in DEI issues, residential life, and student affairs. Attend conferences, workshops, and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.