Compliance Coordinator - FERPA/Student Conduct

JOB SUMMARY:

This position reports to the General Counsel and Director of Government Affairs. This position has a primary focus on student and employee misconduct. Collaborates with other departments (e.g. Student Affairs, Campus Safety) to direct compliance issues to appropriate existing channels for investigation and resolution, and to assist as needed. Also, assists with cross-departmental risk assessment activities to identify, track and report potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk.

MAJOR DUTIES

Under the direction of the General Counsel this position will:

• Investigate student and employee misconduct cases related to allegations of Title IX, VAWA and EEO and, as assigned, other student code of conduct and employee misconduct concerns.

•Prepare and generates drafts of legal documents.

• Assist with implementing the university's legislative strategic priorities.

  •Perform in-depth research and reports on regulations and legal and political issues affecting higher education, 1890 research institutions, HBCUs, and regional and statewide agriculture and economic affairs.

  • Implement the policies and procedures of the university's Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Serves as the university’s FERPA Privacy Officer.

  • Testifies, as required, at university disciplinary and fact-finding hearings.

• Serves as a key member of the Clery Committee and, in partnership with Campus Safety, ensures the university meets the reporting and emergency notification mandates of the Act.

  • Participate on relevant committees, task forces, and projects.

• Collaborate with other departments (e.g. Student Affairs, Campus Safety) to direct compliance issues to appropriate existing channels for investigation and resolution, and to assist as needed.

  • In partnership with the Director of Human Resources, the Disability Coordinator, and the Dean of Students, assists in resolving issues related to equal access and employment opportunities.

  • Monitor, and as necessary, coordinates compliance activities of other divisions to remain abreast of all compliance activities and identify trends.

  • Assist with cross-departmental risk assessment activities to identify, track and report to leadership potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk.

  • Provide reports on a regular basis, and as directed or requested, to keep senior management and the university system office informed of the operation and progress of compliance efforts.

  • Assist in working with the Human Resources Department and others as appropriate, to develop an effective compliance training program, including appropriate introductory training for new employees as well as ongoing training for all employees and managers.

  • Assist in monitoring the performance of the Compliance Program and relates activities on a continuing basis, taking appropriate steps to improve its effectiveness.

  • Other projects/duties as assigned and general support for Legal and Government Affairs Department.

  KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

  • Knowledge of Board of Regents policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of current and emerging legislation, issues, or trends as related to this position.
  • Knowledge of Open Record Act and Freedom of Information Act requirements.
  • Knowledge of procedural processes and procedures.
  • Knowledge of institutional practices.
  • Skill in the operation of computers and job-related software programs.
  • Skill in decision making and problem solving.
  • Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the public.
  • Skill in examining operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing/implementing new strategies and procedures.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.

    SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

    The General Counsel assigns work in terms of department goals and objectives. The supervisor
    reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of department activities.

    GUIDELINES

    Guidelines include federal and state law as well as Board of Regents and university policies and procedures.
    These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. This position assists with developing department guidelines.

    COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

  • The work consists of varied duties related to the overall institutional legal and compliance program in support of university operations. The various facets of the position and the diverse needs of constituents contribute to the complexity of the position.
  • The purpose of this position is to help ensure compliance rules/regulations, policies and procedures are being followed, and the behavior in the organization meets expected standards of conduct. Success in this position ensures university compliance with various state and federal regulations.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field and three (3) years of experience required.

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Juris Doctorate (JD) preferred.
  • Experience working in a higher education setting.