Experienced Assistant Director of Financial Aid with expertise in federal and state regulations, operational efficiency, and student-centered service. Adept at managing complex cases, training staff, and streamlining workflows. Looking to expand my leadership responsibilities and transition into a Director position where I can drive program effectiveness and institutional goals.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Financial Aid
University Of South Carolina Upstate
Spartanburg, South Carolina
06.2021 - Current
Serve as backup to Director, maintaining continuity in financial aid operations.
Supervise and develop a team consisting of one full-time staff member and two Federal Work-Study student employees.
Streamlined FWS Program allocation through interdepartmental collaboration to enhance utilization.
Support and participate in financial aid audits, verifying that awarding practices are correctly implemented and compliant across all programs.
Trained staff on financial aid regulations and software, improving operational efficiency.
Assisted in report creation regarding financial aid distribution and student demographics.
Coordinated FAFSA workshops to enhance student understanding of financing options.
Maintained USC Upstate Foundation scholarship platform while managing award implementations.
Collaborated with university controller’s office for accurate accounting reconciliations of scholarship accounts.
Developed scholarship programming with faculty to meet grant appropriation requirements.
Scholarship Coordinator
USC Upstate
Spartanburg, South Carolina
06.2019 - 05.2021
Coordinated events and activities for students and families at USC Upstate.
Maintained comprehensive records of USC Upstate Foundation Scholarship awards.
Implemented and optimized USC Upstate Foundation Scholarship database to enhance management processes.
Managed all State Scholarship awards, ensuring compliance with eligibility reviews and timely disbursements.
Reconciled outside scholarships to student accounts, maintaining accurate records and compliance standards.
Provided financial aid counseling to students and families, clarifying processes and available resources.
Monitored institutional scholarships, verifying student eligibility and adherence to University policies.
Oversaw scholarship programs across the University, ensuring accurate accounting and seamless fund disbursement.
Financial Aid Loan Counselor
USC Upstate
Spartanburg, South Carolina
04.2018 - 05.2019
Educated students and families on loan options and repayment processes through workshops and presentations.
Advised students on financial aid eligibility and options for federal, state, and institutional programs.
Resolved inquiries regarding loan disbursement issues and discrepancies in student information.
Provided one-on-one counseling to guide students through financial aid program requirements.
Collaborated with academic departments to ensure compliance with regulations relevant to financial aid.
Mentored junior staff on effective financial aid counseling techniques and best practices.
Utilized software systems to efficiently track student financial aid records.
Served as SC Teacher Loan Program Coordinator, overseeing administration and support for participants.
Financial Aid Counselor
Spartanburg Community College
Spartanburg, South Carolina
02.2017 - 03.2018
Advised students on financial aid options and scholarship opportunities.
Oversaw administration of State Scholarship awards to ensure compliance with program guidelines.
Maintained accurate documentation of all financial aid transactions and communications.
Resolved student inquiries regarding financial aid status and procedures effectively.
Updated and organized digital files to enhance accessibility of student information.
Analyzed and delivered regular reports to support decision-making for Assistant Director and Director.
Teller
First Piedmont
Gaffney, South Carolina
11.2006 - 02.2012
Processed customer transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
Managed cash drawer and balanced daily transactions to ensure precision.
Assisted customers with account inquiries and provided service information.
Collaborated with team members to sustain a welcoming branch environment.
Educated customers on new banking products to boost engagement.
Trained new tellers on operational procedures and customer service standards.
Maintained compliance with banking regulations and internal policies during all transactions.
Identified and reported fraudulent activity or suspicious behavior promptly.