Director, International Student & Scholar Services

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is looking for its next Director of International Student & Scholar Services. As advocates for RISD’s international community, this department offers support and services with immigration compliance, cultural and language adjustment, and navigating US systems. International Student and Scholar Affairs (ISSA) also coordinates and provides information about International Student Orientation, which is held in the fall and assists students in finding the campus resources they need. ISSA strives to help international students become integrated into the RISD community and make the most of their experiences here. We seek a culturally competent candidate who will thrive in a campus environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

The Director, International Student & Scholar Services will develop, oversee, consult, and coordinate various aspects of the international student and scholar experience, including immigration compliance, cultural adjustment, acclimation, support, and care. This role ensures office plans, goals, and initiatives are aligned to and supportive of RISD’s mission and strategic plan. As the primary contact for all issues impacting the Rhode Island School of Design’s international students and scholars, the Director is responsible for the leadership and management of the ISSS office and its staff, which includes hiring, professionally developing, and evaluating. This position serves as the Primary Compliance Leader for the F-1 visa program and the Responsible Officer (RO) for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. This role acts as the primary advocate for international students and scholars, and serves as a liaison with groups such as faculty, staff, government agencies, businesses, and local communities, and as a consultant throughout the RISD community on the various issues impacting international students and scholars. This individual will subscribe to and support our commitment to Social Justice, Equity, and Inclusion. The Director promotes teamwork and respect for people of diverse backgrounds in the workplace and in all interactions with internal and external clientele, and effectively communicates verbally and in writing with customers from diverse backgrounds.  The Director will also have access to, and ensure the confidentiality of, protected health information under HIPAA and student information protected by FERPA.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• Strong demonstration of cultural competence awareness within domestic and international contexts and among a broad range of social identities and circumstances. 
• Previous supervisory experiences required.
• Demonstrated advisory experience with student and administrative populations.
• In-depth knowledge of current statuses and regulations governing the US immigration policy.
• Thorough understanding of the institution’s academic programs, policies and procedures and regulations, sponsor agencies, and sponsored student needs.
• Demonstrated expertise in federal regulations and compliance related to international student and scholar immigration services including understanding of F-1 and J-1 regulations. 
• High-level proficiency with Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) regulations and procedures required.
• Ability to articulate, demonstrate, and mentor others in the employment of diversity, inclusion, and equity in systems, policies, procedures, and services.
• Proven track record of creating programming and affirming situations for international students that add to educational and enriching experiences inside and outside of the studio/classroom.
• Demonstrated project management knowledge. 
• Skilled in problem-solving and troubleshooting. Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.   
• Managing and tracking budgets and spending required.
• Active member of NAFSA: Association of International Educators or other international organizations.
• Master’s degree required. 
• 7+ years of progressively responsible experience with U.S. student immigration, visas, DSO leadership, and federal immigration regulations with an ability to practically apply and integrate prior experience and knowledge to this position.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience overseeing and managing university / college electronic systems and databases archiving international student records and files is strongly preferred. 
• Experience in facilitating quality training and presentations to diverse audiences and learning styles strongly preferred. 
• Familiarity with and appreciation for working in art or creative communities is desired.

RISD recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

https://risd.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/RISD/job/Director--International-Student---Scholar-Services_R-01115-1