JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Thrive Coach
Department: Student Enrichment Center
Position Reports to (Position Title): Director of the Student Enrichment Center
Effective Date:
Position Class (Exempt or Non-Exempt): Exempt
Position Type (Full Time or Part Time): Full Time
Is this a Primary or Additional Position: Primary
Job Description
The Thrive Coach serves as both the primary academic advisor and a holistic student support specialist within Jacksonville University's Student Enrichment Center. This integrated role is designed to guide undergraduate students through both academic planning and personal development to ensure their persistence toward graduation, sense of belonging, and overall well-being.
Grounded in a student-centered, equity-minded approach, Thrive Coaches proactively engage students through high-quality academic advising, intentional outreach, and connections to campus resources. Thrive Coaches work in close collaboration with faculty, staff, and administration to deliver a comprehensive support model that enhances student success, retention, and transition to post-graduate life.
In addition to academic advising, the Student Enrichment Center provides the onboarding and orientation experiences for incoming, new students and families. Thrive Coaches contribute to orientation by overseeing student leaders, executing events, and handling hands-on planning logistics.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Duties/Responsibilities
Academic Advising and Educational Planning
- Provide individualized academic advising for a cohort of undergraduate students, guiding course selection, degree progress, and academic goal-setting.
- Assist students in navigating university policies, understanding program requirements, and developing personalized academic plans.
- Address complex academic challenges and provide tailored solutions to promote student persistence and graduation.
- Lead advising-related workshops and orientation sessions, such a during Dophin Dive-In.
- Serve as a key resource for student registration, including high-traffic periods and occasional evening or weekend availability.
Holistic Coaching and Student Development
- Conduct one-on-one and group coaching sessions to develop academic skills such as time management, self-regulation, study strategies, and organization.
- Empower students to build self-efficacy and resilience by identifying and overcoming academic and personal obstacles.
- Utilize data and early alert systems to monitor student progress, identify at-risk behaviors, and initiate timely outreach.
- Promote student growth through interactive programming, soft skills development, and identity-centered support activities.
- Design and implement workshops and success initiatives tailored to the needs of specific student cohorts, including first-generation and underrepresented populations.
Integrated Support and Campus Collaboration
- Collaborate with faculty, academic departments, and student support offices to deliver a comprehensive advising and support model.
- Refer students to appropriate academic, wellness, and career resources, ensuring continuity of care through follow-up and coordination.
- Manage student leaders involved in orientation programming, provide guidance, coordination, and hands-on supervision throughout event execution.
- Support the planning and implementation of orientation events, managing logistics and on-the-ground details to ensure a seamless student experience.
- Maintain accurate advising records and utilize technology-driven case management tools to track student engagement and outcomes.
- Communicate proactively with students, families, and campus partners to address concerns and support student success holistically.
Required Skills/Abilities
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a high level of dedication to providing excellent customer service
- High level of comfort with frequent student contact
- Ability to successfully develop relationships and partnerships across campus
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Computer proficiency required, including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Outlook, and database management
- Ability to work with diverse student populations in a safe and welcoming environment
- Maintain confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive material and information
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree a related field (Master's degree preferred).
- 2+ years of experience in academic advising, student support, or a related area within higher education.
- Experience with campus-based systems such as Blackboard, Colleague, Starfish, Slate, etc.
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to life and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds
- Must be able to bend, stoop, and reach.
- Manual dexterity to efficiently operate a computer keyboard and other business machines;
- Adequate hearing to communicate effectively in person and by phone.
Important Note
This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required for this position. The University reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet organizational needs.
Acknowledgment
Submission of my application acknowledges receipt and understanding of this job description. I verify that I am capable of and willing to fulfill all essential functions of this position. I am willing to be flexible and willing to do various jobs that are not listed, as the need arises.