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Community Engagement and Communications Program Assistant The First-Generation Gateway is the hub for first-generation initiatives at the University of Michigan. It serves as the central location for supporting all first-generation college students at the University of Michigan, facilitates programming for all first-generation college students, and assists units, schools, and colleges with the development of their own first-generation initiatives. The First-Generation Gateway works collaboratively and cooperatively with campus and external constituencies to develop initiatives that enrich the academic, social, cultural, and personal development of first-generation college students at UM. The values that govern the First-Generation Gateway and First-Generation initiatives, and how we approach our work with first-generation college students, focus on the following best practices: This position will work primarily on supporting the Program Director of First Generation Initiatives. Housed within OAMI, the position will also be connected to Student Life, Office of New Student Programs (ONSP), and the Comprehensive Studies Program (CSP). Support initiatives include working on first-generation signature programs, supporting the first-generation student committee, and envisioning how to connect all UM’s first-generation initiatives. Details of the position responsibilities are outlined below. Position Specific Job Responsibilities Event Planning and Coordination While all program assistants are expected to participate in event planning and facilitation, this is the primary responsibility of the Community Engagement & Communications Program Assistant. As the Gateway expands its programming, this position will play a key role in leading the creation and execution of three new large scale events. Currently, there are six signature events hosted by the First-Gen Gateway for all first-generation college students every year. These events include the First-Gen Open House, First-Gen Gateway Open House, Fall Community Dinner, First-Gen Celebration Week, Winter Community Dinner, and First-Gen Graduation. In 2026, the Gateway will be introducing three new events. This position will work closely with the Program Director to conceptualize, plan, and execute these events throughout the year. Conceptualize and discuss the purpose and goals of the events (such as resource fairs, panels, mentorship mixers, and other events) and align these with the current needs and framing of the first-generation identity at Michigan Planning and managing each component and the logistics of the event planning process in tandem with the Assistant Director Executing and carrying out the tasks on the day of the event, paying close attention to detail, and the needs that may arise during the event Plan and assist with the marketing strategy for the programs to first-generation students, staff, and faculty as well as updating and developing website content Attend and support programs coordinated by the First Generation student organization. Assist in the creation of three new events for the First-Gen Gateway.
Annual Impact Report & Communication Develop and execute a communication plan to convey the success of the First-Gen Gateway for diverse stakeholder populations. Collaborate with the Research and Evaluation Program Assistant to develop a report conveying pertinent findings of the impact evaluation and other information tailored to different stakeholder populations.
Faculty & Staff Engagement Review current communication methods for faculty and staff First-Gen advocates to create a regular communications plan. Design new processes and ways for engaging with faculty and staff who have indicated interest in supporting the Gateway.
Communications Management General Job Responsibilities Administrative Support Supporting and collaborating with the student org, First-Gens @ UM, the first organization of its kind in the country. This would include working with the student organization on the development of their long-term plans for the organization, planning smaller social, academic, and professional development events, and providing leadership direction to the executive board through attending the events and executive board meetings Assisting and supporting the program director with the First-Generation Coordinating Council and leadership team meetings with leadership and administrators dedicated to supporting first-generation college students across the campus Attending meetings and taking notes as needed.
Leadership Marketing and Communication Liaise with any respective University of Michigan offices, including but not limited to: Office of New Student Programs, Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, Comprehensive Studies Program, and Student Life. Developing materials around supporting first-generation students for staff, faculty, and external stakeholders to address the needs of first-generation college students across campus
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