Eastern Washington University is launching a transformational first-year strategy—and they're seeking a Senior Director of First-Year Students to lead the charge. Based in Cheney, WA, with relocation assistance available, this newly created role will take the reins on strategy, equity, and student belonging, working alongside passionate colleagues who are deeply committed to student success. From overseeing Orientation and the First-Year Seminar to mentoring your team and forging campus-wide partnerships, your days will be filled with purpose and progress. This is your chance to help shape the journey of every new Eagle—and leave a legacy that lasts. 

Another Source’s client, Eastern Washington University (EWU), is excited to announce a newly created leadership opportunity for a Senior Director of First-Year Students. This is your chance to make a profound difference in the lives of students during one of their most pivotal transitions. 

Internally titled Senior Director, Eagles First Year. 

Here’s a little about Eastern Washington University and the position they are recruiting for:   

At Eastern Washington University, transformation is more than a goal—it’s a mission. 

The Division of Student Affairs at Eastern Washington University is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and engaging campus experience that empowers students to thrive. With a focus on equity, access, and student success, the division provides essential services and programs that support students’ academic, personal, and social development. The Senior Director of First-Year Students will play a pivotal leadership role in this mission, driving strategic initiatives that enhance student transition, engagement, and retention. 

Your Impact 

As the Senior Director of First-Year Students, you'll play a vital role in shaping the journey of every new Eagle. You'll lead university-wide efforts focused on increasing retention, persistence, and student success—from Orientation and Welcome Week to First-Year Seminars and strategic programming. You’ll serve as a bridge between Student Affairs and Academic Affairs, leading initiatives that ensure every first-year student thrives. 

• Build from the ground up—design new programs and shape a campus-wide strategy 

• Leave a legacy—transform how EWU welcomes and retains students 

• Lead with purpose—support students during one of the most critical times of their educational journey 

• Collaborate across silos—bridge Academic and Student Affairs, and engage the entire campus in student success 

• Make equity real—drive initiatives that close the retention gap for underrepresented and first-gen students 

What you will be doing: 

Leadership & Supervision (40%) 

• Lead and inspire the First-Year Experience team, including direct supervision of the Director of Orientation and Family Programs 

• Drive team hiring, training, and ongoing professional development 

• Serve as a campus-wide leader on first-year initiatives and transition strategies 

• Collaborate with families to strengthen engagement and student support 

• Represent the department on the Campus Life Leadership Team and the Student Affairs Thought Leadership Group 

Program Development and Management (40%) 

• Build and execute a comprehensive vision for first-year success, aligned with EWU’s mission and goals 

• Partner with campus departments to develop and integrate a new First-Year Seminar into academic programming 

• Oversee strategic planning and implementation of first-year programming events 

• Manage and optimize budgets supporting first-year initiatives 

Administration and Assessment (20%) 

• Use data and best practices to inform programming and student support strategies 

• Lead assessment initiatives to measure participation, impact, and outcomes 

• Create and present compelling reports showcasing student success and retention metrics 

• Champion EWU’s mission through engagement in regional and national student success organizations 

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, or a related field 

• 4+ years of progressive experience in higher education, with direct involvement in Orientation and First-Year programs 

• Experience teaching first-year college students 

• Strong understanding of student development theories 

• Proven success in budget management (minimum of 3 years) 

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences 

What’s in it for you: 

• Enjoy a robust benefits package and a role that lets you lead with purpose: 

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage 

• State retirement plans through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems 

• Life and disability insurance 

• Tuition waiver for you and eligible family members at EWU and other state institutions 

• Generous time off: paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and parental leave 

Learn more about the benefits: https://inside.ewu.edu/hr/benefits/

The anticipated annual salary for this position is $90,000.

Relocation assistance offered! 

Another Source works with their clients, on a retained project basis.  We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. As you read through the job posting and review the list of qualifications (required and/or preferred), please do not self-select out if you feel you do not meet every qualification. No one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to apply and share your story with us.   

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