The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

JOB PURPOSE:

The Admissions & Student Engagement Specialist supports the full continuum of student engagement at the College of Dentistry—from initial applicant inquiry through enrollment and ultimately graduation. This position plays a critical role in the administrative, operational, and customer-service functions of both admissions and student programs. The Specialist ensures efficient processing of applicant materials, contributes to the evaluation and interview process, and supports initiatives that enhance student engagement, orientation, retention, and milestone events. The individual in this role represents the College professionally to prospective students, applicants, families, external partners, and internal University stakeholders, demonstrating the College’s commitment to academic excellence, professionalism, and service.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

This position does not directly supervise staff but provides functional oversight and guidance to student assistants, ambassadors, and volunteers supporting admissions, orientation, and commencement activities.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

This position does not supervise full-time staff but provides functional oversight, training, and direction to student ambassadors and volunteers supporting admissions, orientation, recruitment, and commencement activities.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Admissions Operations and Applicant Management
• Coordinates the interview process for applicants, including file review preparation, interview scheduling, session facilitation, and processing of application fees.
• Oversees the processing, tracking, and maintenance of applicant files, ensuring timely data entry and accuracy of records.
• Evaluates applications and supporting documents to ensure completeness, accuracy, and integrity, and flags irregularities or potential misconduct.
• Advises prospective students and applicants on admissions policies, requirements, and timelines.
• Prepares admissions-related reports for the Dean, the Director, College leadership, and external associations as required.
• Maintains compliance with institutional, accreditation, and ADEA guidelines related to admissions documentation, confidentiality, and applicant data.
• Manages the full onboarding and enrollment process for incoming predoctoral students, including verification of admissions requirements, collection and tracking of matriculation documents, immunization and compliance records, and University credentialing to ensure all students are fully cleared for enrollment.

Student Engagement and Success Initiatives

• Supports programs and activities that foster a welcoming and supportive environment for incoming students.
• Assists with the planning and implementation of New Student Orientation in collaboration with the Director of Admissions and Student Ambassadors.
• Executes pre-matriculation communication plans to ensure incoming students remain informed, prepared, and connected prior to enrollment.
• Supports student milestone events—including Opening Ceremony, White Coat Ceremony, Match Day, and Commencement—ensuring a positive and professional student experience throughout the lifecycle.

Recruitment, Outreach, and Representation

• Represents the College at recruitment fairs, pipeline programs, high school and college visits, and national or regional pre-dental events in absence of or at the request of the Director.
• Assists with preparation of recruitment materials, presentations, and digital content highlighting student success, College programs, and mission-focused initiatives.
• Participates in staff meetings, retreats, and strategic planning activities related to recruiting, retention, and student engagement.

University and Institutional Coordination

• Serves as the College’s liaison to the University Commencement Committee; attends meetings, provides updates, and ensures timely submission and proofing of Commencement Program content.
• Prepares graduation recommendations for the Office of the Provost and oversees diploma ordering and fulfillment.
• Coordinates institutional data requests and end-of-year reporting for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Student-Centered Service:

• Demonstrates empathy, professionalism, and responsiveness when engaging with applicants and students.
• Maintains a positive, solutions-oriented approach to student support.

Organizational Excellence:

• Ability to manage complex workflows, multitask, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy in data and documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and confidentiality.

Professional Communication:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences, including prospective and current students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners.

Collaboration & Interpersonal Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to work across academic and administrative units to achieve shared goals.
• Comfortable guiding student assistants, ambassadors, and volunteers.

Integrity, Compliance, and Judgment:

• Adheres to FERPA, accreditation standards, and institutional policies governing sensitive information.
• Exercises sound judgment, discretion, and ethical decision-making.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to learn CRM systems, admissions software, Banner, WebAdMIT, Slate, Workday, or other student information platforms.
• Comfortable with data entry, digital communication tools, and document management.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree required, preference for program in Education, Higher Education, Counseling, Business, Communications, or a related field.
• Experience: 1–2 years of experience in admissions, student services, customer service, recruitment, or administrative support.
• Experience in higher education or health-professions settings preferred.
• Experience with event coordination (orientation, ceremonies, recruitment) strongly preferred

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Pay Range: $72,539 - $79,793