What are the responsibilities and job description for the College Persistence Specialist position at Phipps Neighborhoods?
Position Summary:
The College Persistence Specialist provides direct case management and support to alumni of the Bridge 2 College and Careers (B2CC) program enrolled at CUNY campuses. The role addresses gaps in institutional retention services by offering targeted advising, resource navigation, and academic monitoring. The specialist ensures students maintain stability and confidence throughout their college journey.
Responsibilities:
Student Support and Case Management
• Maintain active caseload of B2CC alumni attending CUNY institutions
• Guide students through financial aid processes including FAFSA, TAP, and verification
• Connect students to basic needs supports (housing, food, transportation, mental health)
• Monitor academic progress through transcript review, GPA tracking, and course enrollment
• Intervene when academic, financial, or personal challenges threaten persistence
Peer Engagement and Cohort Development
• Design and facilitate alumni cohort meetups once per semester
• Structure meetups to promote peer connection, shared learning, and mutual accountability
• Document participation and feedback to inform future programming
Collaboration and Systems Navigation
• Liaise with CUNY campus support offices to coordinate services for students
• Maintain communication with B2CC staff to align persistence efforts with pre-college advising
• Track student outcomes and engagement using Salesforce and other internal systems
Administrative
• Attend staff meetings and professional development sessions
• Maintain accurate records of student interactions, progress, and referrals in Salesforce
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Program Leadership
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree required
• Experience in college access, student advising, or case management
• Familiarity with CUNY system and NYC public school landscape
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and respond to student needs with urgency
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.