Campus News

Rockford University invites candidates for the Assistant Director of Global Affairs and Coordinator of ESL.  This position provides support leadership in Global Affairs, including implementing the internationalization processes, international recruitment in collaboration with Admissions, overseeing the implementation of international programming, international student services, and the ESL Program. This position will work with the Director of Global Affairs to implement a refinement plan for the ESL program in anticipation of significant enrollment growth. The Assistant Director will act as a Designated School Official (DSO) and an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) to ensure students comply with the non-immigrant regulations set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• Coordinate with all University offices affecting international students to ensure quality and constructive student experience
• Collaborates with Director of Global Affairs to recruit international students and supervises international admissions processes for all programs as assigned
• Refine and continue to develop ESL curriculum to focus on academic preparation in English, creating a pathway program into Rockford University undergraduate and graduate programs
• Coordinate all ESL academic activities
• Act as a substitute teacher for ESL classes, as needed
• Advise and register ESL students for program courses
• Assist in hiring and developing quality ESL instructors
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate all ESL personnel
• Collaborate with OGA student workers
• Assists in the implementation of the Internationalization process that will create a distinguishing, mission-appropriate strategic plan for Global Affairs at Rockford University
• Collaborates with multicultural student clubs in the implementation of on campus programs that provide students with the opportunity to develop awareness, empathy, and understanding of the international student experience
• Assists in community partnerships that support and foster internationalization
• Serves as principal Academic Advisor for ESL students
• Overseas the English Language Program (ESL Department)
• Supports faculty and staff on global initiatives
• Assists in the implementation and planning of orientation and ongoing events to allow for international students to have support structures and procedures that prepare them for success
• Analyzes qualifications of prospective students utilizing established University admissions standards, guidelines and criteria.
• Communicates on the phone, via e-mail, and in person with prospective students, applicants, parents, guidance counselors and others to provide information and answer questions about Rockford University.
• Completes routine reports related to recruitment and enrollment.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates knowledge, skills and abilities in working with faculty, staff and students with diverse backgrounds including academic, socioeconomic, cultural, sexual orientation, and disabilities.
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Goal-oriented leader with ability to act responsibly and entrepreneurially in initiating action plans for change and improvement
• Professional knowledge of ESL approaches and methodologies, including assessment techniques, test/measurement principles, and instructional material design and development
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Comfortable and enthusiastic in a wide range of cultural groups and cross-cultural relationships
• Effective time management skills
• Ability to work occasional weekend and evening hours
• Ability to use MS Office products
• Ability to manage a budget and keep accurate records
• Ability to communicate clearly in English to non-native speakers
• A citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States (serves as advisor for international students as DSO for F-1 visas and ARO for J-1 visas)
• Have a valid Driver’s License and insurable per driving per policy.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• A combination of a Bachelor’s degree and experience demonstrating expertise in ESOL, TESOL, linguistics, foreign language instruction, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of one-year experience in international affairs preferred
• A minimum of one year of teaching ESL full time or equivalent, including experience developing curriculum and teaching material
• Experience learning a foreign language is a plus
• Experience supervising and evaluating teaching staff is preferred
• Experience with SEVIS, non-immigrant regulations, and USCIS is preferred

TO APPLY:

Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $45,000.

Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way

We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
• Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
• Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.
• Retirement Security: 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future.
• Personal Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs.
• Education Benefits: Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.

At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission.