Position: Director of College Counseling Reports to: Head of Upper School Director of College Counseling Position Overview At Marshall School, we believe the college journey is not just about gaining admission ? it''s about discovering a calling, embracing challenge, and launching a future filled with purpose. The Director of College Counseling plays a transformative role in this journey, guiding students and families through an empowering, student-centered process that reflects the core values of integrity, compassion, and curiosity. The ideal candidate is forward-thinking, strategic, empathetic, and deeply knowledgeable about the evolving landscape of college admissions and financial aid. They will cultivate a program that ensures every student is seen, supported, and celebrated as they find their best fit for the future. As a key leader within the Marshall community, the Director will work collaboratively with families, students, faculty, and admissions professionals across the country ? championing the agency, aspirations, and individuality of every Hilltopper. The Director oversees and partners with the College Counseling Coordinator and reports to the Head of Upper School. Key Responsibilities Student & Family Engagement Guide a diverse group of upper school students (~50 per grade level) and families in grades 9?12 through all stages of the college search, application, scholarship, and financial aid processes. Inspire students to proactively take ownership of their journey with self-reflection, research, and personal discovery at the heart of the process. Offer empathetic and strategic counseling that empowers students to make confident, authentic decisions about their post-secondary plans. Organize and lead signature programs including essay workshops, college visits, application weeks, and family information sessions. Maintain clear, consistent, and encouraging communication with families throughout the journey. Program Leadership Compose detailed, individualized counselor recommendations and prepare Marshall?s supporting documentation for college and scholarship organizations. Steward the school?s use of Cialfo (college admissions software) as a critical tool for application management and communications. Maintain and audit student academic records, transcripts, and graduation requirements with precision and care. Stay current on national trends, financial aid developments, and shifts in the college admissions landscape to best advise students and families. Partnerships & Community Building Build strong, authentic relationships with college admission professionals across the country and abroad. Actively welcome college representatives to campus and foster opportunities for Marshall students to engage meaningfully with admissions professionals. Represent Marshall School at local, regional, and national conferences (NACAC, MACAC, ACCIS, MAIS) and on-campus counselor tours. Lead thoughtful data collection, analysis, and reporting for Marshall?s administration and Board of Trustees. School Leadership and Collaboration Serve as an advocate for students? unique strengths and stories both within and beyond the Marshall community. Collaborate with the Head of Upper School and faculty to align academic programs, testing, and college readiness initiatives. Prepare and manage the College Counseling Office annual budget. Support occasional evening and weekend events, embodying a visible and encouraging presence for students and families. Professional Qualifications and Personal Attributes Extensive experience in selective college admissions and/or independent school college counseling. Strategic thinker with an empathetic, student-centered approach. Superior written, verbal, and presentation communication skills. Meticulous organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects with accuracy and warmth. Deep knowledge of the full spectrum of college options, financial aid systems, and application platforms (Common App, Coalition, FAFSA, CSS Profile, etc.). Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Enthusiasm for relationship-building, collaboration, and continuous professional growth. Bachelor''s degree required; advanced degree preferred. The target salary for this position is between $70,000 and $92,000 per year. This is a full-time, year-round position and is fully benefits eligible. Who We Are Marshall School is a coeducational, private day and boarding school for K?12 students overlooking majestic Lake Superior. Our mission is to inspire lifelong learners to embrace challenge and create positive change. At Marshall, faculty and staff are committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community where students are empowered to explore their passions, stretch their limits, and lead lives of purpose and joy. If you are an inspiring guide, a courageous advocate, and a passionate educator ready to walk alongside students on one of life?s most exciting journeys, we invite you to join our team. Marshall School seeks an inspiring, forward-thinking Director of College Counseling to guide students and families through a transformative, student-centered college journey. The Director will champion every student''s unique story, building confidence, broadening possibilities, and fostering authentic connections with colleges across the country. Ideal candidates bring deep expertise in college admissions, a strategic and empathetic mindset, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for empowering young people to embrace challenge and create positive change. Join a vibrant, inclusive K?12 community overlooking Lake Superior and help shape futures with purpose and joy. Apply here . -- Angela Ahlgren Executive Assistant to the Head of School angela.ahlgren@marshallschool.org 218-727-7266 | x141 She | Her | Hers 1215 Rice Lake Road, Duluth, MN 55811 www.marshallschool.org INSPIRING LIFELONG LEARNERS to EMBRACE CHALLENGE and CREATE POSITIVE CHANGE Integrity | Compassion | Intellectual Curiosity | Self-Discipline | Respect | Strong Academic Habits