General Description:  The Access to Achievement Advisor will work directly with students, caregivers, and RichmondCC staff in the planning, coordination, and implementation of the Next Steps program. This person will work primarily with the Intellectual and Developmentally Disabled (IDD) population at RichmondCC and create an intra-college support system to ensure student success and with career planning throughout the academic journey.

Essential Duties of the Position:

1. Interview student and/or parents to establish interests and goals and assess student for eligibility into the IDD program or other programs of study.
2. Guide perspective students through the admissions process which includes assisting with online applications, RDS (Residency Determination Services) applications, testing, and FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) applications.
3. Present and develop career pathway options based on student interests using written materials, tours, meetings with program/department heads. These options might include Career and College Readiness (CCR) programs, Continuing Education programs, and/or Curriculum programs.
4. Work with Deans and/or Program Directors to expand inclusive certifications, micro credentials, and employability skills training opportunities for students with IDD.
5. Assist students with clarifying their career and academic goals and developing an individualized educational plan.
6. Advise and register first time and returning students.
7. Make appropriate referrals to campus resources for students perceived as at-risk.
8. Schedule check-ins at least twice per semester with students for entirety of student’s enrollment in college courses and following up with instructors on each student’s progress as needed.
9. Inform students of campus events, opportunities, and activities providing a personal invitation to students to participate in these activities, advocating for inclusion of students in all aspects of college and campus life.
10. Coordinate with College marketing and outreach efforts to actively recruit students and network with community agencies.
11. Develop partnerships with workforce development staff, community agencies, and local employers to assist in pursuit of employment for students.
12. Partner student with peer mentor, if desired by student and/or parent/guardian.
13. Track student outcomes for at least six months after separation from college services and submit required reports to NCCCS and other outcomes as determined locally.
14. Attend professional development activities as requested/approved/required by the Vice President for Student Services.
15. Other duties. (Willingness to accept and fulfill additional assignments.)