Graduate Assistant: Latine Leadership & Programs

Wayne State University; Sacramento (CA); On-site; Full time

Job description

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El Centro Serna is dedicated to cultivating an environment that champions leadership, empowerment, self-advocacy, civic engagement, and belonging. Our mission goes beyond individual growth – it reflects our commitment to fostering community and belonging for the nearly 40% of Latine students at Sacramento State, while warmly welcoming all students to engage, learn, & celebrate Latine culture. Through comprehensive programming, we establish a robust foundation that enriches cultural identity and nurtures a profound sense of familia within the campus community.

WHAT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY EL CENTRO SERNA?

El Centro Serna offers a wide range of services and programming designed to support Chicanx/Latinx and other historically underserved students in their personal, academic, and professional journeys. Our goal is to foster a welcoming environment that empowers students to thrive at Sacramento State.

Physical Space

• Lounge area with couches, study desks, lap desks, whiteboards
• Daily snacks and a coffee/tea station
• Workstation with Printer

Academic & Career Support

• Advising Guidance
• Internship/Job Search Assistance
• Civic Engagement & Advocacy Support

Student-Centered Programming

• Cultural programming and heritage month celebrations
• Workshops on leadership, identity development, and career readiness
• Peer mentoring and advising opportunities
• Support and resources for student organizations and cultural affinity groups
• Collaborations with campus departments and community organizations for events, conferences, and outreach

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate student at Sacramento State with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the unique experiences and challenges faced by Latine and first-generation college students, as well as students from other historically underserved communities
• A strong desire to support and advocate for Latine and first-generation students, with a passion for fostering belonging, equity, and inclusion
• Experience with student programming, event planning, or workshop facilitation is highly preferred
• Experience with research, including gathering, analyzing, and presenting data to inform programs and initiatives
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and problem-solve effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant digital tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Canva, Zoom)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direct supervision of the Director and Program Coordinator, the Graduate Assistant will be responsible for the following:

• Facilitate Workshops and Programming: Design, develop, and facilitate culturally-relevant workshops and events focused on leadership development, cultural identity, civic engagement, academic success strategies, graduate school preparation, etc. centering the needs of Latine and first-generation students.
• Support Day-to-Day Operations: Assist with the daily functions of El Centro Serna, including providing general guidance to students, answering inquiries, and ensuring the physical space is welcoming and well-maintained.
• Strategic Planning & Program Development: Contribute to the development and implementation of student-centered programs and initiatives aligned with El Centro Serna’s mission and long-term goals.
• Advising and Mentoring: Offer peer advising and mentoring to support students in setting academic, personal, and professional goals; help them navigate campus resources and address challenges.
• Collaboration & Partnerships: Engage with campus departments, student organizations, and community partners to organize events and co-create programs that promote educational equity and social justice.
• Administrative Support: Assist with record-keeping, drafting program reports, coordinating outreach, and managing logistics for El Centro Serna events, workshops, and campus visits.
• Event Support: Provide planning and day-of support for major events such as La Bienvenida, the Chicanx/Latinx Recognition Ceremony, cultural celebrations, leadership conferences, and awareness campaigns.
• Research & Funding Development: Support the collection, analysis, and presentation of data to assess student needs and program effectiveness; assist in identifying grant and funding opportunities to sustain and expand student-centered initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• Interns should be available to work 20 hours per week between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.
• The minimum work periods are in 4-hour blocks of time.
• The internship is a one academic year (2026-2027) commitment.
• The work is performed in an office environment with continuous contact with students, staff, the campus community, the public, and other agencies.