Graduate Engagement Coordinator

Disability and d/Deaf Cultural Center (D Center)  
Graduate Engagement and Research Coordinator 
 

UW D CENTER 
The Disability and d/Deaf Cultural Center — also known as the D Center — is a physical and virtual community gathering space for UW students, staff, and faculty who identify as Disabled, d/Deaf, or allies. We are committed to fostering a safe space for folks of all abilities to learn, socialize, and celebrate pride in community with each other.  
 

Position Overview 
This role is designed for a graduate student from any UW School or program interested in working in any of the following areas: disability studies, library and information sciences, nonprofit management, community organizing, social work, and/or education. The Graduate Engagement and Research Coordinator will play a key role in supporting the D Center's data management and graduate student programming, facilitating outreach to graduate students and supporting new and ongoing research opportunities.  

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

Center Support   

Maintain regular in-person front desk hours each quarter (opening and closing space, welcoming and helping visitors, etc.). Work with Supervisor and other student staff to ensure D Center has adequate front desk coverage during open hours.  

Maintains the center as needed (cleanliness, stocking supplies, etc.)  

Monitors central D Center e-mail, responding to and forwarding inquiries as necessary 

Provide unbiased, nonjudgmental, and accurate information and referrals to appropriate campus and community services. 

Collaborate with other D Center staff to pick up tasks or program coverage as needed or assigned. 

Supports with the development of content for the D Center newsletter and social media.  

Foster a community of disability and d/Deaf pride across the UW. 

Other duties as assigned by the D Center Manager. 

Graduate Engagement   

Plan and implement community-building programming specifically designed for Disabled, d/Deaf and allied graduate students, creating inclusive and affirming spaces. 

Develop and execute a diverse range of programming; organizing and executing 1-2 events per academic quarter, accounting for the rhythm of the graduate school calendars and student availability. 

Foster a welcoming environment during programming and events that encourage social connection, peer support, and wellness among graduate students who may be navigating isolation or academic stress. 

Collaborate with groups, departments, schools, cultural centers, and other entities at the UW in efforts to enhance graduate student engagement.    

Promote upcoming events through social media, email communications, and campus outreach to ensure visibility. 

Serve as a point of contact for D Center graduate students seeking community and support. 

Respond to inquiries regarding graduate student programming and maintain open communication with attendees and interested students. 

Research & Data Management 

Manage and curate physical and digital resources relevant to Disabled and d/Deaf communities, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. 

Support the design and implementation of ongoing and new data collection in the Center. Track and analyze D Center program and utilization data to support reporting and decision-making. Assess findings for potential research and collaborative opportunities. 

Manage D Center library and rental accessibility equipment. 

Collaborate with UW library staff to organize events, workshops, and displays promoting Disability and d/Deaf awareness and education. 

Collaborate with campus partners such as DRS and Disability Studies to assess research needs and collaborate on findings. 
 

Minimum Qualifications 

Bachelor's degree in Library Science, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Education, Disability Studies or related field. 

Currently enrolled UW student working on a Master’s or terminal degree in Library Science, Data Management, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or related field. 

Knowledge of the Disability and d/Deaf community and other social justice, inclusion, and equity frameworks.   

Ability to work individually and collaboratively in a team environment.   

Ability to meet set deadlines with own initiatives and follow-through.  

Ability to think critically and problem solve as challenges arise.  

Ability to evaluate data and use data to assess D Center needs and prioritizations.  

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with a diverse audience across multiple stakeholders. 

Proficient with technology including but not limited to Canva, Microsoft Office (Word, Teams, etc.), Online Surveys, etc.  

 
Desired Qualifications 

Experience working with people with disabilities and/or d/Deaf individuals  

Knowledge of Disability Justice framework and Universal Design 

Proficiency in American Sign Language   

Equivalent experience may substitute for required qualifications. 

 
If you have gotten this far and think you do not qualify, consider again. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At the D Center, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace. If you are excited about this role, but your experience does not align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be the candidate we are looking for! 
 

WORKING CONDITIONS 

This is a work study eligible role. This is a student position limited to a maximum of 19 hours per week. The position is a hybrid position requiring both in person and remote work Monday through Friday; Evening hours may be necessary. This position will be paid $21.30 per hour.  Schedules are based on workload, the applicant’s class schedule, and other academic responsibilities. This position will report to the D Center Manager.   

Affirmative Action  

University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.  

Title IX  

The University of Washington prohibits sex discrimination and sex-based harassment in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns, make complaints, or direct inquiries to the Title IX Coordinator. The notice of nondiscrimination is located at: https://www.washington.edu/civilrights/policies-and-guidance/statement-of-nondiscrimination/ 

Accommodations  

The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at least ten days in advance at: 206.543.6450/V, 206.543.6452/TTY, 206.685.7264 (FAX), or dso@uw.edu.