Job Description Summary

The Director of International Student and Global Scholar Services (ISGSS) reports to the Executive Director of International Affairs to design, develop, implement and review services for international students at Lewis University. In accordance with the Mission and Strategic Plan of the University. The Director of International Student and Global Scholar Services assures the delivery of student services as part of a high-quality educational experience. This position monitors legal and social aspects of the growth of the International community.

Responsibilities

Model the University Mission through dedicated job performance, service excellence to constituencies, respectful collaboration, and active support of the University’s Mission in Catholic and Lasallian higher education.

-Establish high standards for the delivery of student services and programs.
-Develop effective administrative systems, data analytics, and communication procedures.
-Manage operational budget and maximize financial resources for programming. 
-Advise campus leadership on student-related matters, and counsel individual students as needed. -Develop and implement a strategy and operational plan for International Student and Global Scholar Services.
-Serve as an advocate for international students, initiate new services as appropriate, and student programming. 
-Lead and professionally develop office staff.
-Serve as Designated School Official and/or Responsible Officer for the Department of Homeland Security and/or the Department of State Oversees University Compliance with SEVIS requirements, issuance of SEVIS I-20 and SEVIS DS-2019 forms as well as other documents related to non-immigrant F-1 and J-1status, including coordination with the University Admission Office and Graduate Departments.
-Interpret and advise international students and scholars on federal regulations pertaining to F-1, J-1, and other non-immigrants, as well as on financial, residential, cross-cultural adjustment, and personal issues.
-Advise University Administration on institutional immigration compliance issues. Participate in professional development activities, and keep abreast of changing federal regulations, laws, and world conditions that affect international students and scholars.
-Work closely with the Director of International Admissions to manage the admission data operations for the international student population. 
-Develop and maintain an accurate International Student and Scholar database; prepare regular communications with students on immigration law changes, updates, and compliance issues. Maintain relevant records and statistics of F-1 and J-1 students and scholars.
-Complete the annual Open Door Survey on international student enrollment. Prepare internal and external reports related to the international student population as requested.
-Serve as liaison with USCIS and SEVIS/Homeland Security (DHS) regarding SEVIS regulation updates, audits, or information verification needs. Prepare and coordinate University applications for SEVIS re-certification when appropriate.
-Monitor International Student and Global Scholar Services (ISGSS) website and coordinate information updates as needed. Communicates changes in regulations to students, scholars, and the University community through presentations, emails, and notices.
-Oversee the International Student and Scholar Mentor Program.
-Facilitate the International Student and Scholar Health Insurance Plan.
-Plan, implement, and evaluate activities that promote interaction between domestic and international students. Promote international student adjustment to U.S. Culture, including Orientation Program, International Education Week, etc. Coordinate such activities where appropriate with the international student association, other campus departments, and external organizations.
-Collaborate with faculty, staff, administration, and students to integrate international education services into the overall University function and develop programs to help ensure the University is sensitive to the needs of international students.
-Represent the University’s interest with various organizations, agencies, and consortia involving international students.
-Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in Public or Business Administration, International Studies, Intercultural Communication, Counseling, Student Personnel Administration, or related field required. Five years of related administrative experience, preferably in progressively more responsible management positions in a U.S. university office of international student services. Must have a current working knowledge of U.S. immigration regulations, DHS policies and regulations, and U.S. Department of State protocols and procedures, particularly those related to F-1, J-1, and visa statuses.

Demonstrated experience interpreting federal regulations and developing informational programs and handouts communicating related policies. Minimum of three years of experience serving as a DSO or PDSO with hands-on experience with SEVIS, DHS/USCIS, and international population, direct involvement in program and policy development, counseling of international students, and student academic services. Experience advising international students and a background in interpreting Federal Immigration and Naturalization regulations are required. 

The ability to react quickly and responsibly in emergency situations is also required. Excellent communication skills are essential.