ASCEND Program Coordinator

Daemen University; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Daemen University seeks a compassionate, organized Part-Time Program Coordinator to support the ASCEND program for students with IDD. You will coordinate day-to-day operations, collaborate with faculty, and support students in academics and campus life with emphasis on inclusive engagement.

The role requires a strong commitment to inclusion, excellent communication, and the ability to empower students toward career readiness and independence.

Qualifications

• Experience with individuals with intellectual disabilities and families in special education or related settings.
• Strong communication, organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team with diverse groups.
• Excellent communication with students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners, advocating for inclusive practices.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate student schedules, audit plans, and academic modifications with faculty and Accessibility Services.
• Support program operations within the campus community, including academic departments and student life.
• Manage program resources, expenses, and materials.
• Lead student workshops on soft skills, job readiness, independent living, and campus navigation.
• Coordinate job-shadowing, internships, and on-campus work experiences aligned with student goals.
• Maintain communication with local businesses and community organizations to expand employment opportunities.

Skills

Strong communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Administrative skills

Collaborating with diverse groups

Education

Bachelor's in Education

Bachelor's in Special Education

Bachelor's in Disability Studies

Bachelor's in Rehabilitation Counseling

Bachelor's in Social Work

Related field

Job description

Daemen University is a dynamic, independent, liberal arts institution committed to excellence in student centered learning. The University places special emphasis on preparing students for excellence in professional life, civic engagement, and on instilling and understanding that learning is an exciting lifelong journey. Students are encouraged to be creative, innovative, ethically minded leaders for an ever-changing, diverse, and interconnected world.

The Mission of Daemen University is to prepare students for life and leadership in an increasingly diverse and complex world through the integration of education and professional preparation. Daemen University is going beyond instrumental needs to foster the development of individuals who are dedicated to the health and well‑being of local and global communities.

Purpose of Role

The ASCEND Program at Daemen University is seeking a compassionate, organized, and student‑centered Part‑Time Program Coordinator to support its Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This innovative program offers students the opportunity to audit university courses, participate in campus life, and develop career readiness and independent living skills in a supportive environment.

About This Role

The Program Coordinator will support the day‑to‑day operations of the ASCEND Program, playing a key role in ensuring its success. Responsibilities include collaborating with faculty and staff, supporting students in academic and social settings, coordinating inclusive campus engagement, and facilitating vocational experiences. This role requires a strong commitment to inclusion, excellent communication and organizational skills, and a passion for empowering students with IDD to reach their goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Program Coordination & Management

• Coordinate student schedules, course audit plans, and academic modifications in collaboration with faculty and supports provided through Accessibility Services.
• Support program within the campus community, including academic departments and student life.
• Manage program resources, such as expenses and materials.
• Student Support & Progress Monitoring
• Provide individualized support and planning for students.
• Coordinate access to academic supports such as assistive technology and tutoring.
• Monitor student progress and maintain accurate documentation and reports.
• Lead student workshops on soft skills, job readiness, independent living, and campus navigation.
• Career Development
• Support students iCAP (Career Action Plan) activities, workshops, and portfolio development.
• Coordinate job‑shadowing, internships, and on‑campus work experiences that align with student goals.
• Maintain communication with local businesses and community organizations to expand and support employment opportunities.
• Community Engagement & Communication
• Facilitate ongoing communication among students, peer mentors, families, and campus community.
• Assist with planning and participate in program events, orientation, outreach, and recruitment activities.
• Represent the program at community events and campus‑wide initiatives.
• Peer Mentor & Staff Training
• Oversee, train, and support peer mentors and interns who work alongside ASCEND students.
• Assist in supporting and providing resources to faculty, staff, and mentors on inclusive education practices.
• Stay current with emerging research and best practices in the field of inclusive postsecondary education.

Required Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have the following background, credentials, and/or characteristics: A bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Disability Studies, Rehabilitation Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.

• Experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in special education and/or related agency settings, including but not limited to teaching, counseling, program coordination, administration within K‑12 or postsecondary education institutions.
• Strong communication, organizational, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team with diverse groups of people.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners. The ability to advocate for inclusive practices, promote awareness of disability issues, and build community support is critical.

Preferred

• Experience in higher education, school‑based, or postsecondary transition programs.
• Knowledge of person‑centered planning, universal design for learning (UDL), or vocational rehabilitation services.