Graduate Assistant Unity Center Event and Programming Planning

Primary Purpose

The Graduate Assistant for Events & Student Engagement supports the Unity Center within the Division of Student Success by helping cultivate a vibrant, inclusive campus community for undergraduate and graduate, commuter and residential students. This role partners closely with the Director to develop initiatives that spark new traditions, strengthen belonging, and embody the spirit of unity across Rhode Island College.

The GA plays a central role in designing, coordinating, and executing high-impact programming for the Unity Center and its satellite spaces—including the Lavender Lounge and identity-based communities—while leading and supporting undergraduate Student Programmer Associates in their event planning efforts. Responsibilities include event logistics, marketing, assessment, and hands-on collaboration with student staff to bring meaningful experiences to life.

This position is ideal for a creative, community-minded graduate student who enjoys planning mission-driven events, building relationships with student leaders, and turning bold ideas into engaging, well-executed programming. Areas of focus may be tailored based on the GA’s specific skills and experience.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with the Director of Unity Center to build new traditions and launch innovative programs that reach and resonate with the full diversity of RIC students.
• Collaborate with undergraduate Student Programmer Associates and other Unity Center and Lavender Lounge GAs to plan and deliver high-quality, culturally responsive programming throughout the academic year.

Unity Center Grad Assistant-Events and Programming

• Coordinate with Student Programmer Associates to support the Assistant Director of Unity Center’s large-scale events
• Support and monitor Graphic Design Associates in creating accessible promotional materials, including flyers
• Build dialogue and support circles for marginalized students, occasionally partnering with student organizations and campus departments on co-sponsored events.
• Help design and run Unity Center events that enhance campus pride and boost school spirit across the college.
• Enhance student engagement by supporting creative outreach efforts including tabling, producing accessible flyers with alt- text, developing social media content, and coordinating email/GroupMe messaging with student staff.
• Represent the Unity Center at college wide events, service fairs, orientation and tabling opportunities as available.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in a graduate program at Rhode Island College
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects and competing responsibilities.
• Experience with event planning, student engagement, or community programming (professional, undergraduate, or volunteer.
• Strong oral communication skills (public speaking)
• Self-motivated, reliable, dependable, punctual; able to work with deadlines
• Comfortable with Canva, OneDrive etc.
• Act as an ambassador for the Unity Center on and off campus; have a passion for social justice, equity and inclusion.
   

Learning Opportunities:

• The Graduate Assistant will demonstrate proficiency in program planning and project management by independently guiding an event or initiative from concept to execution, using timelines, budgets, and assessment tools to evaluate impact.
• The Graduate Assistant will strengthen facilitation and leadership skills by designing and leading inclusive programs, workshops, and dialogue circles that support student engagement, identity development, and intercultural learning.
• The Graduate Assistant will develop community-building competencies by cultivating positive relationships with students, supporting the Unity Center’s welcoming environment, and applying conflict navigation strategies to promote healthy, respectful interactions.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the Graduate Assistant Application, include a resume, and provide corroborating documentation for related experience if applicable. Send to Danii De La Rosa, Assistant Director.