TRIO Talent Search Project Advisor

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

Virginia Union University seeks a dedicated and mission-driven TRIO Talent Search Advisor to support middle and high school students as they prepare for high school completion and postsecondary success. The Advisor plays a vital role in delivering high-impact programming, building strong school partnerships, and empowering first-generation and income-eligible students to achieve their goals. The Advisor works closely with school personnel, community partners, parents, and the TRIO team to ensure high-quality program delivery and compliance with U.S. Department of Education guidelines.

Primary Responsibilities

Student Advising & Support

• Provide one-on-one and group advising on academics, leadership, social/emotional skills, and college/career readiness

• Assist students with course selection, goal setting, study skills, time management, and self-advocacy

• Guide students through college exploration, admissions applications, FAFSA, scholarship searches, and financial-aid literacy

• Develop and monitor individualized academic success plans based on student needs

• Conduct consistent check-ins to support academic progress and personal development

Program Delivery & Workshop Facilitation

• Plan and deliver engaging workshops on college readiness, financial literacy, career pathways, and life skills

• Support the coordination and supervision of cultural experiences, field trips, and college tours

• Assist with student recruitment, application processing, and orientation for new participants

• Collaborate with school partners to schedule services, identify student needs, and maintain positive relationships

Documentation, Reporting & Compliance

• Maintain accurate student records and service logs in compliance with federal TRIO regulations

• Track academic progress, attendance, workshop participation, and advising notes

• Assist with data entry for the Annual Performance Report (APR) and internal evaluations

• Ensure all program activities meet TRIO guidelines and institutional standards

Family & School Engagement

• Communicate with parents/guardians to provide updates, resources, and college-planning information

• Participate in school events, parent nights, and community opportunities to increase program visibility

• Build strong relationships with teachers, counselors, and administrators to support student success

Team Collaboration & Professionalism

• Support the Program Director with events, recruitment strategies, and program initiatives

• Represent TRIO and VUU with professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to educational equity

• Participate in ongoing professional development and required TRIO trainings

• Maintain strict confidentiality and demonstrate ethical responsibility

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field

• Experience working with youth, schools, or community organizations

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

• Proven ability to build positive relationships with students from diverse backgrounds

• Commitment to serving first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented populations

• Technology proficiency (Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, virtual platforms)

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree

• Previous experience with TRIO or other pre-college access programs

• Knowledge of college admissions, financial aid, and postsecondary planning

• Spanish-speaking preferred but not required

• Experience facilitating workshops, tutoring, mentoring, or youth-focused programming

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.