Academic Champion (Specialized Population & Academic Recovery Focus)

Job Summary

As a member of the Division of Academic Affairs, the Academic Champion provides specialized, holistic academic advising and intensive case management for Freshman and Sophomore students. This role is uniquely split between two high-priority populations: Band students (navigating the rigors of performance and travel) and students in the N.A.D.O. Program (those admitted conditionally with high school GPAs below 2.0, or students currently on Academic Warning/Probation). The Academic Champion serves as a primary advocate, coach, and strategist, ensuring these students successfully transition to their junior year. This position is funded through Title III and reports to the Director of Student Success.

Job Duties

• Targeted Performance Advising: Deliver proactive, interactional academic advising for Freshman and Sophomore Band students, creating "academic roadmaps" that account for heavy rehearsal schedules, travel, and classic "Battle of the Bands" season commitments.

• N.A.D.O. Case Management: Provide intensive monitoring for N.A.D.O. Program participants and students on academic recovery. This includes weekly or bi-weekly check-ins to track progress, attendance, and the implementation of academic success plans.

• Degree Progression & Registration: Navigate students through the registration process, ensuring they meet general education requirements and understand the specific GPA benchmarks required to remain eligible for Band participation and federal financial aid (SAP).

• Academic Intervention Teaching: Instruct Student Success courses (as needed) specifically designed for students in academic recovery, focusing on the cognitive and non-cognitive skills required for collegiate persistence.

• Holistic Coaching: Address root causes of academic struggle by providing direct coaching in time management, note-taking, and test-taking strategies. Coordinate specifically with the Band Director to align academic expectations with performance schedules.

• Integrated Referrals: Serve as a bridge to Talladega College Student Affairs, counseling, financial aid, and disability services. Ensure N.A.D.O. students are utilizing mandatory tutoring and writing center resources.

• Data & Compliance: Maintain meticulous records of student interactions and progress in accordance with FERPA. Monitor "Early Warning" reports to intervene before mid-term grades are finalized.

• High-Impact Advocacy: Remain current in high-impact practices (HIPs) regarding HBCU student retention, at-risk student intervention, and the specific needs of first-generation students.