Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Department:
The Office of the Senior Vice President (SVP) for Student Affairs provides strategic leadership for SMU’s Division of Student Affairs. Led by SVP Dr. K.C. Mmeje, the office includes seven full-time professionals who deliver essential centralized support to the division. Together, the team advances the division’s mission to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment where every Mustang can thrive.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
The Coordinator for the Office of the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs (OSVPSA) provides comprehensive event planning, communications, marketing, and development support to advance the mission, initiatives, and strategic priorities of the Division of Student Affairs at Southern Methodist University. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, this position plays a critical role in supporting signature events, shaping divisional messaging, managing digital and social media content, and assisting with development activities. The Coordinator works collaboratively with Student Affairs colleagues and campus partners to ensure cohesive, high-quality communications and operational support.
Essential Functions:
The Coordinator provides planning and logistical support for a variety of SVPSA and divisional events including coordinating timelines, invitations, communications, reservations, catering, materials preparation, and on-site support. They collaborate with stakeholders to ensure events are well organized, professionally executed, and aligned with divisional objectives.
Develops and publishes engaging content across Student Affairs and SVPSA-related social media platforms. This includes monitoring engagement, analytics, and reporting. They ensure SM content reflects divisional priorities, celebrates campus life, and supports student engagement goals, while staying current on social media trends and best practices within higher education.
Drafts and proofreads written materials on behalf of the OSVPSA. They support the development and execution of communication and marketing strategies, ensuring messaging is clear, professional, and aligned with SMU’s brand standards. They manage the division’s communications calendar.
Assists with SA development-related activities, including stewardship communications and donor engagement efforts. They support coordination with University Development, help prepare briefing materials and correspondence related to fundraising activities, and support effective donor relations.
Serves as an active and engaged member of the Office of the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs team. Supports the implementation and realization of the student affairs division mission and strategic plan.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s is required.
Experience with marketing, communications, and/or event planning is preferred. Experience within an educational organization is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
Candidate must have the ability to conceptualize, write and edit strategic, accurate and concise content for various audiences, to work under pressure, meet deadlines, conduct multiple tasks and maintain effective working relationships, to coordinate large projects with numerous components over extended periods of time and to visually inspect print and online copy when self-editing or editing the copy of others.
Knowledge of Asana Project Management is preferred.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Sit for long periods of time
Deadline to Apply:
Applications received by June 19, 2026 will receive priority consideration.
Position is open until filled.
EEO Statement
SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
Full Time
Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Department:
The Office of the Senior Vice President (SVP) for Student Affairs provides strategic leadership for SMU’s Division of Student Affairs. Led by SVP Dr. K.C. Mmeje, the office includes seven full-time professionals who deliver essential centralized support to the division. Together, the team advances the division’s mission to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment where every Mustang can thrive.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
The Coordinator for the Office of the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs (OSVPSA) provides comprehensive event planning, communications, marketing, and development support to advance the mission, initiatives, and strategic priorities of the Division of Student Affairs at Southern Methodist University. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, this position plays a critical role in supporting signature events, shaping divisional messaging, managing digital and social media content, and assisting with development activities. The Coordinator works collaboratively with Student Affairs colleagues and campus partners to ensure cohesive, high-quality communications and operational support.
Essential Functions:
The Coordinator provides planning and logistical support for a variety of SVPSA and divisional events including coordinating timelines, invitations, communications, reservations, catering, materials preparation, and on-site support. They collaborate with stakeholders to ensure events are well organized, professionally executed, and aligned with divisional objectives.
Develops and publishes engaging content across Student Affairs and SVPSA-related social media platforms. This includes monitoring engagement, analytics, and reporting. They ensure SM content reflects divisional priorities, celebrates campus life, and supports student engagement goals, while staying current on social media trends and best practices within higher education.
Drafts and proofreads written materials on behalf of the OSVPSA. They support the development and execution of communication and marketing strategies, ensuring messaging is clear, professional, and aligned with SMU’s brand standards. They manage the division’s communications calendar.
Assists with SA development-related activities, including stewardship communications and donor engagement efforts. They support coordination with University Development, help prepare briefing materials and correspondence related to fundraising activities, and support effective donor relations.
Serves as an active and engaged member of the Office of the Senior Vice President for Student Affairs team. Supports the implementation and realization of the student affairs division mission and strategic plan.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s is required.
Experience with marketing, communications, and/or event planning is preferred. Experience within an educational organization is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
Candidate must have the ability to conceptualize, write and edit strategic, accurate and concise content for various audiences, to work under pressure, meet deadlines, conduct multiple tasks and maintain effective working relationships, to coordinate large projects with numerous components over extended periods of time and to visually inspect print and online copy when self-editing or editing the copy of others.
Knowledge of Asana Project Management is preferred.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Sit for long periods of time
Deadline to Apply:
Applications received by June 19, 2026 will receive priority consideration.
Position is open until filled.
EEO Statement
SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
The Director of the Women and LGBT Center will be responsible for the development, implementation, and assessment of comprehensive educational programs to address the needs of women and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community on campus. This position will serve as an advocate for students on issues related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation and strive to promote a positive and inclusive environment on campus. Primary responsibilities also include, but are not limited to, providing leadership in implementing programming and education for the entire university community; advise individual students and student organizations; counsel and assist students and student organizations with problem solving and conflict mediation; manage departmental and program budgets; and supervise program coordinator, student and para-professional staff in the office.
Essential Functions:
Plan, execute, and assess departmental educational programs, initiatives, and services including but not limited to: Allies Program, Women Symposium, LGBT Equality Forum, campus training activities, and assist in the facilitation of learning experiences such as Intersections, and seminars, Athletics Diversity Council Class, among others.
Work with students, faculty, and staff on women’s, gender, and LGBT awareness issues, as well as issues affecting a diverse student population. This includes advising and/or collaborating with student organizations with a particular emphasis on issues related to the mission of the center and creating or enhancing partnerships with other offices on campus and in the local community.
Provide administrative oversight for the Women & LGBT Center including budget management, website maintenance, assessment of program and learning outcomes, and daily operational functions.
Direct public relations efforts related to the Women and LGBT Center including information fairs, campus outreach, and president commission committees.
Work with students, staff, faculty, and community members to provide networking and program collaborations.
Represent the Women & LGBT Center on the Student Development Leadership team, as well as university committees.
Support the implementation and realization of the goals and learning domains in the student affairs strategic plan.
Other Duties as assigned
Occasional evening/weekend hours required for programs, trainings and retreats.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
A Master's degree is required.
A minimum of six (6) years of experience is required. Experience in programming, especially in the areas of gender issues, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender student experiences, and diversity; event planning experience, strong community networking is required. Experience in training, teaching, and/or facilitation of educational programs is also required.
A minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience is required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
Candidates must have a demonstrated ability to work well with college students in an advising and development environment. Additionally, they need a thorough understanding of complex issues surrounding inclusive collegiate environments.
Candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Office, web programs and general computer skills.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Sit for long periods of time
Handle objects (dexterity)
Deadline to Apply:
Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by April 17, 2026.
This position is open until filled.
EEO Statement
SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
Full Time
Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
The Director of the Women and LGBT Center will be responsible for the development, implementation, and assessment of comprehensive educational programs to address the needs of women and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community on campus. This position will serve as an advocate for students on issues related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation and strive to promote a positive and inclusive environment on campus. Primary responsibilities also include, but are not limited to, providing leadership in implementing programming and education for the entire university community; advise individual students and student organizations; counsel and assist students and student organizations with problem solving and conflict mediation; manage departmental and program budgets; and supervise program coordinator, student and para-professional staff in the office.
Essential Functions:
Plan, execute, and assess departmental educational programs, initiatives, and services including but not limited to: Allies Program, Women Symposium, LGBT Equality Forum, campus training activities, and assist in the facilitation of learning experiences such as Intersections, and seminars, Athletics Diversity Council Class, among others.
Work with students, faculty, and staff on women’s, gender, and LGBT awareness issues, as well as issues affecting a diverse student population. This includes advising and/or collaborating with student organizations with a particular emphasis on issues related to the mission of the center and creating or enhancing partnerships with other offices on campus and in the local community.
Provide administrative oversight for the Women & LGBT Center including budget management, website maintenance, assessment of program and learning outcomes, and daily operational functions.
Direct public relations efforts related to the Women and LGBT Center including information fairs, campus outreach, and president commission committees.
Work with students, staff, faculty, and community members to provide networking and program collaborations.
Represent the Women & LGBT Center on the Student Development Leadership team, as well as university committees.
Support the implementation and realization of the goals and learning domains in the student affairs strategic plan.
Other Duties as assigned
Occasional evening/weekend hours required for programs, trainings and retreats.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
A Master's degree is required.
A minimum of six (6) years of experience is required. Experience in programming, especially in the areas of gender issues, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender student experiences, and diversity; event planning experience, strong community networking is required. Experience in training, teaching, and/or facilitation of educational programs is also required.
A minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience is required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.
Candidates must have a demonstrated ability to work well with college students in an advising and development environment. Additionally, they need a thorough understanding of complex issues surrounding inclusive collegiate environments.
Candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Office, web programs and general computer skills.
Physical and Environmental Demands:
Sit for long periods of time
Handle objects (dexterity)
Deadline to Apply:
Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by April 17, 2026.
This position is open until filled.
EEO Statement
SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
Reporting to the dean of residence life and student housing (RLSH), the director of residence life provides leadership in developing and sustaining positive, academically focused residential communities and in successfully accomplishing administrative functions required in managing a university residence community within a residential commons (i.e. residential colleges) setting. The director leads a team of staff in creating and providing a foundational student experience that promotes belonging, learning, and connection. They directly supervise four full-time associate directors, indirectly supervise 13 full-time Residential Community Directors (RCDs), and over 100 student leaders.
All applicants must click here to apply.
Essential Functions:
Utilizing the model provided by the Residential Commons, develop, implement and manage residential life programs that promote student learning, personal growth and student development, and which establishes a positive sense of community and intellectual environments in on-campus housing. Continuously assess the program, revising as necessary to meet the prevailing needs of students and the university.
Directly supervise -four associate directors. Indirectly supervise 13 full-time RCDs, three graduate assistants, and over 100 resident assistants. Assess the job performance of assigned staff. Develop training programs that reinforce the skills and knowledge needed to effectively meet established goals and objectives.
Establish and maintain effective and collaborative working relationships with offices and programs that support and/or augment the goals and objectives of RLSH. Work collaboratively with faculty-in-residence. Work closely with facilities services to maintain the residential buildings.
Assist with all departmental processes and work collaboratively with other areas within RLSH to assure proper execution of related administrative procedures by residence life staff. Participate in RLSH long- and short-term planning efforts including development and management of $2.6 million budget.
Provide direction during crisis and emergencies, and effectively communicate to stakeholders throughout the process.
Provide customer service and interface with parents and students as needed to resolve disputes and concerns.
Support RLSH administrative requirements for student records and facilities operations.
Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet RLSH and university goals and objectives. Participate in select university and division committee work and liaison assignments.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
A master’s degree and a minimum of seven years full-time residence life or academic engagement experience. Previous live-in experience required. Superior understanding of student development theory and relevant residence life applications. Ability to maintain excellent and collaborative working relationships with related campus programs and with residence life programs. Excellent organizational and planning skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Ability to manage crisis, and to analyze and address conflict. Ability to interpret student needs and develop effective programmatic responses within the context of university and departmental values, goals, objectives, and strategic plans.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Strategic and creative thinker
Experience with residential commons and academic partnerships
Experience serving on behavioral intervention and/or care teams
Exceptional supervisory experience
Advocate for student concerns
Collaborative
Visionary leadership
Deadline to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed beginning October 1, 2025 , and continuing until the position is filled. To apply for this position, please click on the Apply button, complete the brief application process, and upload your resume and position-specific cover letter. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com . Click here to apply
EEO Statement:
SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu .
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
Full Time
Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
About SMU
SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs.
SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences , Cox School of Business , Lyle School of Engineering , Meadows School of the Arts , Simmons School of Education and Human Development , Dedman School of Law , Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies .
SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence.
Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.
About the Position:
This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
Reporting to the dean of residence life and student housing (RLSH), the director of residence life provides leadership in developing and sustaining positive, academically focused residential communities and in successfully accomplishing administrative functions required in managing a university residence community within a residential commons (i.e. residential colleges) setting. The director leads a team of staff in creating and providing a foundational student experience that promotes belonging, learning, and connection. They directly supervise four full-time associate directors, indirectly supervise 13 full-time Residential Community Directors (RCDs), and over 100 student leaders.
All applicants must click here to apply.
Essential Functions:
Utilizing the model provided by the Residential Commons, develop, implement and manage residential life programs that promote student learning, personal growth and student development, and which establishes a positive sense of community and intellectual environments in on-campus housing. Continuously assess the program, revising as necessary to meet the prevailing needs of students and the university.
Directly supervise -four associate directors. Indirectly supervise 13 full-time RCDs, three graduate assistants, and over 100 resident assistants. Assess the job performance of assigned staff. Develop training programs that reinforce the skills and knowledge needed to effectively meet established goals and objectives.
Establish and maintain effective and collaborative working relationships with offices and programs that support and/or augment the goals and objectives of RLSH. Work collaboratively with faculty-in-residence. Work closely with facilities services to maintain the residential buildings.
Assist with all departmental processes and work collaboratively with other areas within RLSH to assure proper execution of related administrative procedures by residence life staff. Participate in RLSH long- and short-term planning efforts including development and management of $2.6 million budget.
Provide direction during crisis and emergencies, and effectively communicate to stakeholders throughout the process.
Provide customer service and interface with parents and students as needed to resolve disputes and concerns.
Support RLSH administrative requirements for student records and facilities operations.
Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet RLSH and university goals and objectives. Participate in select university and division committee work and liaison assignments.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
A master’s degree and a minimum of seven years full-time residence life or academic engagement experience. Previous live-in experience required. Superior understanding of student development theory and relevant residence life applications. Ability to maintain excellent and collaborative working relationships with related campus programs and with residence life programs. Excellent organizational and planning skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Ability to manage crisis, and to analyze and address conflict. Ability to interpret student needs and develop effective programmatic responses within the context of university and departmental values, goals, objectives, and strategic plans.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Strategic and creative thinker
Experience with residential commons and academic partnerships
Experience serving on behavioral intervention and/or care teams
Exceptional supervisory experience
Advocate for student concerns
Collaborative
Visionary leadership
Deadline to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed beginning October 1, 2025 , and continuing until the position is filled. To apply for this position, please click on the Apply button, complete the brief application process, and upload your resume and position-specific cover letter. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com . Click here to apply
EEO Statement:
SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu .
Benefits:
SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.
SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.
The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities , including tuition benefits .
