Director of CTP Program - Daemen University

Daemen University is a dynamic, independent, liberal arts institution committed to excellence in student centered learning. The University places special emphasis on preparing students for excellence in professional life, civic engagement, and on instilling and understanding that learning is an exciting lifelong journey. Students are encouraged to be creative, innovative, ethically minded leaders for an ever-changing, diverse, and interconnected world.

The Mission of Daemen University is to prepare students for life and leadership in an increasingly diverse and complex world through the integration of education and professional preparation. Daemen University is going beyond instrumental needs to foster the development of individuals who are dedicated to the health and well-being of local and global communities.

Purpose of Role

The Program Director will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and overseeing Daemen University's Comprehensive Transition Post-secondary (CTP) program, which is designed to support students with intellectual disabilities who want to continue academic, career, and independent skills instruction to prepare for employment and community living. This position requires a blend of administrative leadership, program development, and advocacy skills to ensure the delivery of high-quality, inclusive education and support services.

About This Opportunity

Joining our Academic Affairs - Saffrin Center team, the Director of CTP Program will be responsible for the following:

Program Development and Implementation:

• Develop and refine the overall vision, goals, and objectives of CTP in alignment with institutional values and standards;
• Design and support implementation of innovative curriculum frameworks, instructional methodologies, and support services tailored to the unique needs and abilities of students with intellectual disabilities;
• Document program design through the creation of policies, procedures, and protocols relevant to the application review, peer mentoring, and internship processes, among others;
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, community partners, and relevant stakeholders to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic, social, and vocational growth;
• Engage in program fund development opportunities through marketing and community outreach, assisting individuals/families navigating Medicaid Waiver processes, and grant writing activities; and
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations governing postsecondary education programs for students with disabilities.

Student Recruitment and Admissions:

• Develop and execute strategies to recruit and enroll a diverse cohort of students with intellectual disabilities who will benefit from the program;
• Coordinate admissions processes, including application review, interviews, and assessment of student readiness for postsecondary education; and
• Provide guidance and support to prospective students and their families throughout the admissions process, addressing questions, concerns, and accommodation needs.

Student Support and Success:

• Aid in the development and/or facilitation of campus- and community-based internships;
• Oversee the delivery of comprehensive support services, including academic advising, career readiness, person-centered planning, accessibility, and campus engagement, as needed;
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to ensure creation of individualized learning plans and monitoring of student progress towards academic, career, and co-curricular goals; and
• Implement strategies to promote student engagement, self-advocacy, and self-determination; empowering students to navigate campus and community life; and pursuing meaningful post-graduation career pathways.

Program Evaluation and Improvement:

• Establish performance metrics and assessment tools to evaluate program effectiveness, student outcomes, and satisfaction levels and
• Collect and analyze quantitative and qualitative data on an annual basis.

Required Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have the following background, credentials, and/or characteristics:

• A master's or doctoral degree in Education, Special Education, Disability Studies, Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
• Substantial experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in special education and/or related agency settings, including but not limited to teaching, counseling, program coordination, administration within K-12 or postsecondary education institutions, and/or navigating government funding mechanisms such as Medicaid waiver program.
• Strong leadership qualities and experience in administrative roles are crucial including demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and oversee programs; manage budgets; supervise staff; and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with federal and state laws governing disability rights, special education, and postsecondary education such as understanding the requirements of legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA).
• Expertise in curriculum development, program design, and assessment methodologies is valuable. Candidates should be skilled in designing inclusive educational experiences, establishing learning outcomes, and evaluating program effectiveness.
• Excellent communication skills are essential for engaging with students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners. The ability to advocate for inclusive practices, promote awareness of disability issues, and build community support is critical.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of emerging trends, best practices, and research in the field of inclusive education and transition services is important.

Salary Range: $70,000-$80,000

Total Compensation

Daemen University offers a robust total compensation package that includes:

• Health insurance with an option of two plans: an HSA plan with the deductible funded by employer HSA contributions, or a copay plan.
• Dental insurance through the Guardian network.
• Vision insurance through the Guardian network, and an option between the VSP or Davis plans.
• An 8% employer contribution to the retirement savings account when employees contribute just 5%.
• Fully paid long term disability insurance, guaranteed-issue life insurance for new hires up to a volume of $150,000.
• Tuition waiver for full-time employees and their qualified dependents. Entrance in Tuition Exchange scholarship opportunities to pursue education at other institutions.
• Generous time off for administrative and staff employees.

Daemen University strongly encourages all campus community members to get vaccinated for COVID-19, including a booster vaccine.