Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Diane Usher

Bristol,RI

Summary

Adept at leading financial aid programs at Roger Williams University, I enhanced service delivery and compliance with Title IV regulations. My expertise in federal student aid policies and exceptional verbal communication skills significantly improved student guidance and documentation accuracy. Achievements include developing comprehensive aid strategies and fostering inter-departmental collaboration for streamlined operations.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Farm Stand Manager

Ushers Farm
Bristol, RI
07.2024 - Current
  • Efficiently oversaw all aspects of operations, including the cash register, optimizing efficiency and customer experience.
  • Monitored inventory levels to ensure adequate stock for peak times.

Director of Financial Aid

Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI
09.2016 - 07.2024
  • Collaborated with other departments on campus to develop strategies for improving service delivery to students.
  • Ensured compliance with relevant laws governing Title IV programs as well as other applicable regulations.
  • Coordinated audits conducted by internal or external auditors.
  • Met regularly with senior administrators regarding the status of financial aid initiatives within the college.
  • Processed financial aid documents and completed basic verification of information.
  • Prepared reports using academic or institutional data and information.
  • Developed and implemented a comprehensive financial aid program in accordance with federal, state and institutional regulations.
  • Analyzed student data to determine eligibility for need-based assistance.
  • Conducted training sessions for staff members on new systems or procedures relating to financial aid services.
  • Monitored changes in legislation that affect the administration of student financial aid programs.
  • Supervised the preparation of reports related to financial aid programs and activities.
  • Provided guidance and support to staff members regarding financial aid processes, procedures, policies and regulations.
  • Developed policies and procedures related to awarding funds based on need or merit criteria.
  • Gave workshop and other group presentations to inform students of options and educate on financial aid process.
  • Liaised with students and admission department to facilitate documentation and application processing.

Associate Director of Financial Aid

Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI
06.2010 - 09.2016
  • Conducted financial aid needs analysis to determine student eligibility for various types of aid.
  • Advised students on loan repayment options and debt management strategies.
  • Assisted in the preparation of federal, state and institutional financial aid applications.
  • Reviewed student documents to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
  • Managed the processing of Federal Direct Loans, Pell Grants, Parent PLUS loans, Graduate PLUS loans, scholarships, and other forms of assistance.
  • Coordinated efforts with other departments, such as Admissions, Student Accounts Receivable, and Registrar's Office.
  • Formulated strategies for improving customer service delivery within the department.
  • Maintained records of all communications between students and parents regarding their financial aid status.

Education

Master of Science - Higher Education Administration

Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
09-2007

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI
05-1998

Skills

  • Federal Student Aid policies
  • Documentation Review
  • Verbal Communication
  • Student Guidance
  • Grant administration
  • Data Verification

Timeline

Farm Stand Manager

Ushers Farm
07.2024 - Current

Director of Financial Aid

Roger Williams University
09.2016 - 07.2024

Associate Director of Financial Aid

Roger Williams University
06.2010 - 09.2016

Master of Science - Higher Education Administration

Drexel University

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

Roger Williams University
Diane Usher