Bemidji State University (BSU) invites applicants to join our team as a Retention and Recruitment Specialist – Ojibwe Teacher Training Program (OTTP). The Retention and Recruitment Specialist for the OTTP is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive recruitment and retention strategies to support student enrollment, persistence, and successful completion of the Ojibwe Teacher Training Program at Bemidji State University. This position builds and sustains strong relationships with high schools, tribal communities, prospective students, and current students across Minnesota. The Specialist serves as a central relational connector within the program, ensuring seamless, culturally grounded, and positive student experiences from initial recruitment through program completion. This role does not include classroom teaching responsibilities.
 
Responsibilities of the Retention and Recruitment Specialist OTTP include: 

• Statewide Recruitment and Outreach. (40%).
  • Developing and executing strategic recruitment plans targeting high schools, tribal schools, and community organizations across Minnesota.
  • Conducting in-person and virtual presentations to prospective students, families, counselors, and community partners.
  • Representing the Ojibwe Teacher Training Program at college fairs, community events, and tribal gatherings.
  • Building sustained partnerships with tribal education departments and school administrators.
  • Maintaining accurate recruitment data and reporting metrics.
• Student Retention and Success Support. (35%)
  • Providing individualized support and proactive outreach to students enrolled in the program.
  • Connecting students to academic advising, tutoring, and financial aid, and student support services.
  • Monitoring student progress in collaboration with faculty and advisors.
  • Assisting with transition support for new students entering the program.
  • Supporting culturally affirming programming and community-building activities.
• Program Integration and Collaboration. (15%)
  • Working closely with the Ojibwe language teaching team to ensure coordinated communication and student support.
  • Participating in program planning meetings and strategic initiatives.
  • Contributing to the development of culturally responsive recruitment and retention materials.
• Administrative and Reporting Duties. (10%)
  • Maintaining accurate recruitment and retention records.
  • Preparing reports for institutional leadership and grant-related documentation if applicable.
  • Managing travel logistics and outreach budgets in compliance with university policies.

Minimum qualifications for this position include: 

• Master’s degree in Education, Student Affairs, Indigenous Studies, or a related field, plus one (1) year of related professional experience, or a Bachelor’s degree plus two (2) years of professional experience in a relevant field, or three (3) years of professional experience in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of post-secondary training, education and/or professional experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Ojibwe communities and educational pathways.
• Experience in recruitment, outreach, advising, student services, or community engagement.
• Strong interpersonal, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet university travel requirements.
• A demonstrated commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

Preferred qualifications include: 

• Fluency or working knowledge of the Ojibwe language.
• Experience working with tribal schools or tribal education departments.
• Experience supporting retention initiatives in higher education.
• Experience working in private and/or public higher education environments.

To facilitate the review, assessment, and evaluation process, please ensure that your application and/or resume clearly demonstrate fulfillment of the minimum and preferred qualifications of the position. The application materials submitted will be utilized for salary placement purposes.