Position Summary

The College of Natural Science (NatSci) at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for the next Director of the Charles Drew Science Scholars (Drew Scholars) program. The next Director, in collaboration with Drew Scholars professional staff, will provide leadership and vision for the program while continuing to foster an environment that supports student success and advances diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).  

About the Drew Scholars Program 

Since its inception in 1979, the Drew Scholars program has provided a vibrant living-learning community and comprehensive academic support to high-achieving undergraduate students from populations historically underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Drew Scholars offers its members dedicated academic advising, academic coaching, career advising, and specialized programming, including two seminar courses, to foster academic and professional growth. Drew Scholars students are active members of the MSU community, engaging in undergraduate research, peer mentorship, leadership in student organizations, and community service. Many Drew Scholars students are also members of the Honors College. The program annually serves about 250 students (freshman to senior levels) pursuing majors in the College of Natural Science. The most recent NatSci strategic plan includes the goal of increasing the size of Drew Scholars in coming years.  

Highlighted Program Features  

Living-Learning Community 

A key feature of the Drew Scholars program is the residential living-learning community that offers first- and second-year students an opportunity to live in the same residence hall where the program offices are located. The Director will work closely with the Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) Department to provide opportunities for students to build community and generally support the residential and socioemotional needs of students. 

S-STEM Natural Science Transfer Scholars Program 

Drew Scholars is also home to the S-STEM Natural Science Transfer Scholars program which was created to promote the successful transfer of academically talented low-income students from Washtenaw Community College and Mott Community College to Michigan State University. Supported by the National Science Foundation (S-STEM #2221177), this grant (funded 2023-2028) provides scholarships, along with transitional and ongoing support, to MSU's Natural Science Transfer Scholars. The Director serves on the program leadership team and works closely with the project PI to complete grant deliverables.  

Position Responsibilities:

The Director will hold a 12-month, 100% appointment in the Academic Specialist -- Continuing System with salary commensurate with experience. Responsibilities of the position include:  

Program Development and Fiscal Management 

·      Vision and leadership for the Drew Scholars program to support student success and retention in the natural sciences 

·      Management of the Drew Scholars program operating budget 

·      Supervision of Drew Scholars program academic and professional staff 

·      Training and coordination of academic coaches and undergraduate learning assistants 

Student Engagement and Success 

• Active engagement with Drew Scholars students throughout their tenure in the program and beyond 
• Instruction for Drew Scholars seminars (NSC 100 and NSC 200); these courses focus on helping students to successfully transition to university life, develop strategies for academic success, explore careers and career development opportunities, and prepare for careers in STEM 

Partnerships and Community Outreach 

·      Coordination with academic units on campus to grow enrichment opportuniti