<p>Position is grant funded and contingent upon continued funding.</p> <p>ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES</p> <ol> <li> <p>Develops, implements, operates, and evaluates the ASCEND strategic plan, program, eligibility, and application criteria for recruitment and admission of students to the Autism Transition Program.</p> </li><li> <p>Raises funds for the ASCEND annual needs and private scholarships through obtaining grants, crowdfunding campaigns, and/or private donors in collaboration with Missouri State Advancement; applies for and manages the Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) with the U.S. Department of Education in collaboration with the Office of Student Financial Aid; and manages and oversees accounts utilized for the operation of ASCEND.</p> </li><li> <p>Trains and supervises the ASCEND staff, recruits and coordinates student mentors, and oversees recruitment, training, and implementation of volunteer support for ASCEND students.</p> </li><li> <p>Markets the ASCEND program to raise awareness on campus, throughout south-central Missouri and beyond by managing and updating the ASCEND website and social media accounts and utilizing other marketing materials. Travel is often required to promote the program throughout the area and state.</p> </li><li> <p>Collaborates with departments and divisions on campus to provide support for students in ASCEND, creates training workshops for faculty on accessibility, Universal Design for Learning, and inclusion for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in partnership with the Office of Academic Affairs.</p> </li><li> <p>Develops and identifies the curricula used for the ASCEND program support sessions by researching best practices for postsecondary education programs across the country.</p> </li><li> <p>Builds partnerships with local businesses to provide internship possibilities for students in ASCEND and provides career support to students graduating and six months post-graduation from ASCEND.</p> </li><li> <p>Develops and leads the ASCEND advisory board and provides program updates to major administrators and the Board of Governors as requested.</p> </li><li> <p>Reports satisfactory academic progress (SAP) to the Office of Student Financial Aid and maintains academic standards for all students in ASCEND.</p> </li><li> <p>Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed by the supervisor.</p> </li><li> <p>Supports the overall success of Missouri State University-West Plains by performing all other duties as assigned.</p> </li></ol> <p>West Plains ASCEND</p>