Director of College Access

Director of College Access

Organization Description:

Bronx Lacrosse is a year-round, academic and sports-based youth development program with a mission of improving educational opportunities and life outcomes for underserved middle and high school students in the Bronx. We pair high-level coaching and team competition with structured academic support, school-based interventions, and consistent mentorship so student-athletes thrive in school and beyond.

Bronx Lacrosse seeks a dynamic Director of College Access to lead all aspects of postsecondary planning, ensuring that every Bronx Lacrosse student graduates with a clear plan for college, career, and long-term financial freedom. This role is a true mentor and advocate for our young people, supporting students and families as they navigate the barriers that can stand between them and their postsecondary goals. The Director of College Access oversees college exploration, application support, financial aid guidance, family engagement, and transition programming, and reports directly to the Chief Program Officer.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of college and workforce readiness and experience in collaborative program development and continuous improvement. They are both a strategist and a coach who can strengthen the systems that expand access to best-fit postsecondary opportunities. They will build and manage partnerships with access organizations, higher education institutions, and workforce development programs.

Director of College Access Responsibilities:

College and Career Exploration and Planning

• Using our College Access Curriculum, guide students through identifying academic interests and career goals and introduce students to a range of postsecondary options.
• Create and maintain individualized college lists and timelines.
• Support students in understanding admissions requirements, testing, and deadlines.
• Plan and lead college visits, panels, and information sessions.
• Organize events such as College Nights, Essay Bootcamps, and Senior Transition Workshops.
• Ensure all students have a strong postsecondary plan - be that college, trade school, or career - that will lead to financial independence and fulfilling futures.

College and Financial Aid Application Support

• Assist students with Common App, CUNY/SUNY, and other application platforms.
• Provide feedback on personal statements, supplemental essays, and resumes.
• Cultivate collaborative relationships with high school guidance offices, college admissions teams, and other partner organizations to ensure strong outcomes for students.
• Lead students and families through FAFSA, TAP, CSS Profile, EOP/HEOP, and other aid processes, including external scholarship opportunities.
• Support families in reviewing and comparing financial aid packages.
• Assist with verification, appeals, and other follow-up tasks.

Postsecondary Persistence and Career Readiness

• Guide seniors through the transition from high school to college.
• Maintain relationships with students in college to provide support when necessary related to academics, financial aid, or campus life.
• Guide students through the career placement process by helping with resume building, interview preparation, and professional development.
• Develop and expand strategic partnerships with companies that enable our students to participate in internships and lead to suitable career placement opportunities.

Data Tracking and Reporting

• Track key milestones: applications, acceptances, financial aid awards, and enrollment decisions.
• Maintain accurate student records and advising logs.
• Provide data for internal decision-making, grant reporting, and program evaluation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum 2 years of related work experience in college and career success
• Experience working with high school youth and first-generation students
• Strong understanding of college admissions, financial aid, and postsecondary systems
• Ability to build trusting relationships with students and families
• Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills
• Commitment to Bronx Lacrosse’s mission and values

Location: South Bronx, NY

Salary & Benefits: $85,000-$100,000/year, commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package. Bronx Lacrosse offers health and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan with employer match, and a generous paid time off policy that includes flexible PTO, 10+ paid holidays annually, and multiple weeks of organization-wide vacation during the winter holidays and in the summer.

To apply: Please send your resume with a cover letter, including how your experience/goals relate to this position to Info@bronxlacrosse.org indicating “Director of College Access your name” in the subject line.

Salary & Benefits: $85,000-$100,000/year, commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package. Bronx Lacrosse offers health and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan with employer match, and a generous paid time off policy that includes flexible PTO, 10+ paid holidays annually, and multiple weeks of organization-wide vacation during the winter holidays and in the summer.