Oklahoma City Community College Seeks Assistant Director of Upward Bound

Oklahoma City Community College Position Emphasizes Safety, Student Support

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – A recently advertised position at Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) highlights a strong commitment to both campus safety and supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The role, details of wich were recently published, places significant emphasis on adherence to safety protocols and a responsibility to report potential crimes as a campus Security Authority (CSA).

The job description explicitly states the successful candidate will be expected to abide by all Board of Regents and College policies, contribute to a safe learning environment, and actively participate in emergency drills. Quarterly health and safety training is also mandated,aligning with OCCC’s established procedures.

Beyond safety, the position underscores the importance of experience working with economically and educationally disadvantaged students. Applicants are required to detail their relevant experience and are asked to provide transcripts if they hold a Master’s degree or higher.This focus reflects a broader trend in higher education towards prioritizing student success, notably for those facing systemic barriers. Community colleges, like OCCC, often serve as crucial access points for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

The role also requires a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and necessitates the submission of a cover letter and resume. Transcripts are required for applicants claiming a Master’s degree or higher.

Evergreen Insights:

The increasing emphasis on campus safety and CSA reporting is a nationwide phenomenon, driven by federal regulations and a growing awareness of security concerns on college campuses.The Clery Act, for example, mandates that institutions report crime statistics and issue timely warnings to students and staff.

Furthermore, the focus on supporting disadvantaged students is a key component of many colleges’ diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by these students is seen as essential for promoting equitable educational outcomes and fostering a more inclusive campus community. This position at OCCC exemplifies this commitment, signaling a dedication to both safety and student success.

Based on the job description, what experience would be most beneficial when building relationships with local high school counselors for student recruitment?

Understanding the upward Bound Program at Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC)

Oklahoma City Community College is actively recruiting for an Assistant Director of Upward Bound, a vital role within a federally funded TRIO program. Upward Bound is designed too prepare and motivate first-generation, low-income students to succeed in college. This isn’t just a job; itS an opportunity to directly impact the lives of students and contribute to a more equitable educational landscape. Oklahoma, known as the “Land of the Indianer” (as highlighted by Visit USA), has a unique demographic requiring targeted support like Upward Bound.

Key Responsibilities of the Assistant Director

The Assistant Director plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the Upward Bound program. Core responsibilities include:

Student Recruitment: Identifying and recruiting eligible students from local high schools. This involves outreach, presentations, and building relationships with school counselors.

Academic Advising: Providing individualized academic advising to students, helping them develop educational plans and navigate the college submission process.

Program Coordination: Assisting in the planning and implementation of program activities, including workshops, tutoring sessions, college visits, and summer programs.

Data Management & Reporting: Maintaining accurate student records and preparing reports for the college and funding agencies (typically the U.S.Department of Education).

Budget Management: Assisting with budget monitoring and ensuring responsible use of program funds.

Supervision: Potentially supervising student support staff or tutors.

Required qualifications & Skills

OCCC seeks candidates with a strong commitment to student success and a demonstrated understanding of the challenges faced by first-generation, low-income students. Typical qualifications include:

Education: Bachelor’s degree is required; a Master’s degree in education, counseling, or a related field is often preferred.

Experience: At least two years of experience working with students in an academic setting, preferably within a TRIO program (Upward Bound, Student Support Services, Talent Search).

Knowledge: Familiarity with college admissions processes, financial aid, and academic advising techniques.

Skills:

Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.

Strong organizational and time management skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data management software.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Bilingual skills (Spanish) are often a plus, given Oklahoma’s diverse population.

Why Choose Oklahoma City Community College?

OCCC is a dynamic and growing institution committed to providing accessible, high-quality education. Working at OCCC offers several benefits:

Impactful Work: Directly contribute to the success of students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Professional Advancement: OCCC supports employee growth through professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits Package: Competitive salary and benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Community Focus: OCCC is deeply involved in the Oklahoma City community, providing a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Location: Oklahoma City offers a vibrant cultural scene and a relatively affordable cost of living. The state itself, covering approximately 182,000 km², provides diverse experiences.

The TRIO Programs Landscape & Career Advancement

The Assistant Director role at OCCC is part of a larger network of TRIO programs nationwide.Experience in Upward Bound can be a stepping stone to other opportunities within higher education, such as:

Program Director: Leading and managing a TRIO program.

Student Affairs Professional: Working in various roles within student services, such as advising, counseling, or student activities.

Higher Education Management: Pursuing leadership positions within colleges and universities.

grant Writing: Utilizing grant writing skills developed through program reporting to secure funding for educational initiatives.

application Process & Key Dates

Interested candidates should visit the Oklahoma City Community College careers website to view the full job description and submit their application. typically, applications will require:

Cover letter: Highlighting your qualifications and experience.

Resume: Detailing your educational background and work history.

Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.

References: Contact facts for professional references.

Vital dates (as of 2025-08-07 – confirm on OCCC website):

Application Deadline: [Insert Date – Check OCCC Website]

Interview Dates: [Insert Dates – Check OCCC Website]

Anticipated Start Date: [Insert Date – Check OCCC Website]

Resources for Potential applicants

Oklahoma City Community College: https://www.occc.edu/

* U.S. Department of Education – TRIO Programs: [https://www2.ed.gov/programs/trio/index.html](https://www2.ed.gov/programs/trio/