What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Military and Veteran Student Services position at Kentucky State University?
TITLE: Director of Military and Veteran Student Services
DEPARTMENT: Academic Affairs
REPORTS TO: Vice Provost of Academic Affairs
CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months
EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD
STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week
EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time
EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
JOB SUMMARY:
The Director of Military and Veteran Student Services provides strategic leadership and oversight for all aspects of Kentucky State University's support for military-affiliated students (veterans, active duty, reservists, and dependents). Serving as the primary advocate and School Certifying Official (SCO), this role ensures VA education benefit compliance, drives strategic recruitment and retention efforts, fosters a veteran-friendly campus culture, and provides individualized support to maximize student success. The Director collaborates extensively with internal and external stakeholders to create a seamless and supportive educational experience.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- VA Benefits & Compliance: Serve as the official SCO, ensuring accurate certification via VA ONCE and compliance with all VA and institutional regulations; advise students on benefit options and eligibility; monitor enrollment and progress; maintain accurate records and reporting; stay current on relevant legislation.
- Strategic Recruitment & Outreach: Develop and implement a comprehensive recruitment plan; design targeted marketing strategies; represent KSU at military and community events; build and maintain partnerships with military installations, VA offices, and community organizations.
- Student Support & Programming: Develop and administer programs addressing the unique needs of military-affiliated students; coordinate veteran-centered events (orientation, recognition, workshops); provide case management and advocacy; collaborate with campus departments to ensure student success; track data and implement retention strategies.
- Leadership & Administration: Provide accurate VA reporting; develop and deliver presentations; prioritize responsibilities; effectively plan and execute programs; maintain program records.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- In-depth knowledge of VA education benefits, military structures, and federal regulations.
- Experience with VA ONCE and student information systems (e.g., Banner).
- Strong interpersonal and cultural competency in working with military populations.
- Excellent relationship-building, communication (written and verbal), and presentation skills.
- Strong planning, organization, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Ability to interpret VA regulations and maintain program records.
- Skilled in assisting students in distress and utilizing available resources.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
- May supervise work-study students or interns and coordinate volunteers.
OTHER DUTIES:
- This position will conduct other related duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably in higher education administration, student affairs,
- counseling, or related field).
- 2-3 years of experience working with veterans, military programs, or higher education services.
- Previous SCO experience highly preferred.
- Military experience or background in a military-affiliated organization strongly preferred.
- Must complete VA SCO training within 30 days of hire if not already certified.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Standard office environment with occasional evening/weekend hours and travel for events and outreach. Frequent interaction with diverse stakeholders and handling of confidential information.
Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa
KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.
