| Position Summary | The Program Coordinator (PC) for the Full Spectrum Learning (FSL) Program at Austin Peay State University (APSU) plays a critical role in case management, research, data collection, office organization, and campus-wide neurodiversity initiatives. This position ensures efficient student tracking, program evaluation, and operational effectiveness while also leading campus partnerships, professional development, and sensory-friendly initiatives. The PC must have strong research skills in both quantitative and qualitative data collection to support program assessment, data-driven decision-making, and grant development. Exceptional organizational abilities are required to streamline student tracking systems, maintain office efficiency, and oversee operational workflows. Strong communication and public speaking skills are necessary to lead workshops, engage with students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and collaborate with university stakeholders. This position supervises Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) and Student Workers and sits on key university committees, advocating for inclusive policies, accessibility initiatives, and expanded neurodiversity resources.
The PC reports to the FSL Director, working closely with faculty, staff, and external partners to enhance student success and program sustainability.
Austin Peay State University is a four-year public, doctoral-level university, with six colleges and four Chairs of Excellence. The University has an enrollment of over 10,000 students and is located in Clarksville, Tennessee, a community of an estimated 180,000 people located approximately 40 miles northwest of Nashville, TN. |
| Primary Duties and Responsibilities | Student Support & Office Operations - Provide case management using the goal-setting model, supporting students with academic, social, and self-care planning to ensure structured support.
- Supervise Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) and Student Workers.
- Oversee and maintain student tracking systems, ensuring accurate documentation of progress, program participation, and case notes.
- Develop and refine standard operating procedures to improve case management, workflow efficiency, prospective student procedures, and office administration.
Research & Institutional Partnerships - Lead quantitative and qualitative data collection, tracking student retention, engagement, and program impact.
- Conduct program assessments, analyze trends, and compile reports using data from available records.
- Collaborate with faculty and APSU’s Office of Research & Sponsored Programs to secure funding, support research projects, and expand neurodiversity-focused studies.
- Represent FSL on committees (on and off campus), ensuring inclusive policies, accessibility improvements, and data-driven program recommendations.
Campus Engagement & Professional Development - Organize faculty training, student workshops, and professional development programs focusing on autism support strategies.
- Lead campus-wide neurodiversity initiatives, including sensory-friendly campus improvements and advocacy efforts.
- Serve as a liaison between FSL and APSU departments, such as Disability Services, Student Success (GovsSignal), and Admissions (etc.), ensuring seamless student support services.
- Represent FSL at state and national conferences (AHEAD, College Autism Network).
- Assist in budget tracking, scholarship management, and funding allocation to support FSL programming.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
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| Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities | - Knowledge of ASD and its impact on individuals in an educational setting.
- Strong research background, with experience in quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to manage tracking systems, student databases, and office workflows.
- Outstanding communication and public speaking abilities, with experience leading workshops, faculty training, and student engagement initiatives.
- Ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to advance neurodiversity initiatives.
- Experience in case management, academic coaching, and student success strategies.
- Proficiency in technology and data systems, including Microsoft Office Suite and student tracking platforms.
- Strong ability to multitask, manage deadlines, and conduct program evaluations.
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| Physical Requirements | - Ability to work in an office setting, including extended periods of sitting, typing, and using a computer.
- Occasional standing, walking, and lifting materials (up to 20 lbs.) for events, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
- Ability to travel for conferences, outreach events, and community partnership meetings.
- Availability for some evening and weekend events related to FSL programming, workshops, and professional development
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| Required Minimum Qualifications | - Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Disability Studies, Research Methods, or a related field.
- One year of experience working with neurodiverse individuals (paid or unpaid experience accepted).
- Experience in quantitative and qualitative research, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage tracking systems, office workflows, and student records.
- Excellent communication skills, with experience in public speaking, workshop facilitation, and student engagement.
- Knowledge of FERPA, ADA, and best practices for neurodiversity support in higher education.
- ASD training verification is required within six months of employment (certification will be provided if not already certified).
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree and experience working in a higher education setting with individuals with ASD.
- Familiarity with assistive technology, universal design strategies, and transition supports for neurodiverse students
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