Director of International Student Services bei ST THOMAS UNIVERSITY INC

Director of International Student Services

POSITION SUMMARY

The position is charged with ensuring compliance with federal regulations pertaining to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of State (DOS) and other governmental agencies. This position administers programs and services for the university’s international students, and their dependents, and provides advising services on a broad range of immigration, academic, personal, financial, health, social, and cultural concerns, including requirements for a driver’s license and social security number. Accountable for federal reporting by maintaining and updating student information in the DHS Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and other complex database systems to meet SEVIS compliance. Develops and conducts educational workshops for students, faculty, and staff on immigration regulations, career considerations, health, and cultural matters. Partners with university colleagues on proactive strategies and programs to enhance the enrollment, retention, and overall success of international students.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Advise international students in F-1 and J-1 status, in areas of immigration, cultural, personal, and financial concerns.
• Serve as Designated School Official (DSO) for the F-1 visa program and as the Principal Designated School Official (PDSO).
• Advise F-1 students on maintaining F-1 status while studying/working in the United States.
• Monitor and maintain data integrity that interfaces with Datatel/Colleague, SEVIS.
• Spearhead and be the lead with SEVIS Registration process each semester to ensure international students' progress and continued compliance with the F-1 student regulations.
• Manage F-1 and J-1 records regarding international students, exchange visitors and dependent populations for accurate reporting to SEVIS.
• Review Curriculum Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), and STEM-OPT extension applications and issue I-20s accordingly• Create, implement, and assess educational programs such as seminars, workshops, and activities for international students throughout the academic year.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with various campus partners to further collaborative efforts (e.g., Graduate and Undergraduate Admissions, Registrar, Housing and Residence Life, Athletic Department).
• Support with the coordination and implementation of orientations and cross-cultural programs for international students and their dependents.
• Serve as advisor to the International Student Club.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICIATIONS: 

• Master’s degree in student personnel, business administration, higher education administration, international relations, or related field.
• Two to four years of experience working in a higher education environment with international students.
• Ability to navigate SEVIS and Colleague information system.
• Must have strong computer literacy with the ability to navigate and use effectively the SEVIS and Colleague information systems. 
• U.S. citizenship or lawful U.S. permanent resident status [as required by U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of State].
• Ability to clearly communicate government regulations and university policies to international students, faculty, and administration.
• Evidence of strong organizational abilities and the ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast paced, high-volume environment. 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent customer service and diplomacy skills and able to work effectively with faculty, students, University, and government officials from different cultural backgrounds while maintaining legal and ethical standards. 
• Enthusiasm for working with college students is essential.
• Valid driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience at small to mid-sized, faith-based institution.
• Involvement in NAFSA and/or other international higher education professional organizations.