Graduate Assistant - Compass Program AY 2025-2026
Job Function: The Graduate Assistant provides essential administrative support to the Program Director of the Compass Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Program. This role is designed for a graduate student who is passionate about enhancing educational access and success for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Graduate Assistant will contribute to the day-to-day operation of the Compass Program through administrative tasks, and coordinating communication with faculty, staff, and students.
Specifications:
Who: A current graduate student pursuing a Masters or Doctoral level degree at Duquesne University who is in good academic standing. This role is ideal for a proactive graduate student who is eager to support program leadership while making a meaningful impact on the academic and social experiences of students with IDD.
What: The Graduate Assistant is a key administrative support role that ensures the smooth operation of the Compass Program.
Where: Duquesne University campus and various off-campus locations.
When: During the 2025-2026 school year, working approximately 10 hours/week.
Why: The Graduate Assistant role is essential in ensuring the effective operation and continued growth of the Compass Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Program. By providing critical administrative support, this position enables the strategic focus and support necessary to deliver high-quality services to college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This position is responsible for managing communications and providing support to Compass students and compensated student mentors of the Compass Program. The contributions of this role will help build an environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed, fostering a culture of inclusion on campus.
Job Duties:
- Assist Director in supporting mentors and Compass students through coordinated scheduling, training, and professional development:
- Draft, proofread, and distribute internal and external communications;
- Support students in building relations and the creation of natural supports on campus;
- Support the planning and implementation of new program initiatives and improvements;
- Assist in collecting, analyzing, and compiling program data for evaluations and reports as necessary;
- Maintain accurate records related to program activities and student engagement;
- Contribute to the development of materials and documentation that highlight program impact and success.
Qualifications:
1. Clearances (Upon Hire)
a. Current background check
b. Current Act 33 (Child Abuse)
c. Current Act 34 (Criminal Check)
d. Current FBI Check
e. Current CPR certification (preferred, not required)
2. Bachelor's Degree required. Must be pursuing a Masters or Doctoral level degree at Duquesne University.
3. Experience working with people with disabilities is strongly preferred.
4. Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
5. Ability to foster an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment
6. Reliable, patient and adaptable to students' needs
7. Attend Compass Pre-Orientation and Peer mentor training programs at the start of the 2025-2026 Academic Year to understand how to best support their mentee
Please provide a cover letter indicating interest in position and a resume and/or curricula vitae for consideration.
Questions can be directed to:
Dr. Alia Pustorino-Clevenger
Program Director, Compass Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Program
pustorinoa@duq.edu