Detail-oriented researcher, Rating Veteran Service Representative, and case manager with first-rate active listening, communication and planning traits. Creative and persistent to quickly and effectively solve various problems that may arise. Committed to completing accurate and thorough competitive assessments. Outstanding research skills combined with effective decision-making talents. Experienced at identifying and using new technologies and resources. Works effectively and collaboratively with teams and individuals.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Doctoral Researcher
Walden University
08.2020 - 11.2023
Wrote research papers, reports, reviews, and summaries regarding human and social services
Gathered and organized information for research purposes
Performed research into study topics to increase knowledge and to provide valuable contributions
Collaborated with leadership team to identify relevant questions and determine best methods of collection
Interpreted data analysis results to draw inferences and conclusions
Analyzed and interpreted patterns and trends
Developed research proposals, identified research objectives and created research plans
Sorted data into well-organized formats and transformed into figures
Operated and performed preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment and instruments
Graduation projected for January 2024
Synthesized data and wrote detailed reports to present research findings to stakeholders
Analyzed results using analytical software and created reports
Participated in research projects by designing and executing experiments.
Rating Veteran Service Representative
Department Of Veterans Affairs
01.2023 - Current
Reviewed outstanding requests and redirected workloads to complete projects on time
Validated claim determinations through meticulous analysis of relevant evidence before finalizing decisions.
Processed and recorded new policies and claims
Ensured consistent application of legal standards across all cases by adhering to established guidelines when rating disabilities.
Resubmitted claims after editing or denial to achieve financial targets and reduce outstanding debt
Maintained strong knowledge of basic medical terminology to better understand services and procedures
Determined appropriateness of payers to protect organization and minimize risk
Coordinated with contracting department to resolve payer issues
Posted payments to accounts and maintained records
Carried out administrative tasks by communicating with clients, distributing mail, and scanning documents
Collected premiums and issued accurate receipts
Verified client information by analyzing existing evidence on file
Generated, posted and attached information to claim files
Made contact with insurance carriers to discuss policies and individual patient benefits
Modified, updated and processed existing policies
Calculated adjustments, premiums and refunds
Checked documentation for accuracy and validity on updated systems
Communicated effectively with staff members of operations, finance and clinical departments
Maintained confidentiality of patient finances, records, and health statuses.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Department Of Veterans Affairs
01.2022 - 01.2023
Providing quality assurance or auditor functions related to claims processing and benefit determination
Adjudicating and authorizing of compensation, pension, and claims
Providing determination to reconsider claims appeal cases
Preparing presentations to reconsider claims appeal cases.
Assisted individuals with addressing disabilities and developing career plans
Administered preliminary and comprehensive vocational assessments
Coordinated community resources and secured referrals
Promoted development of interviewing, resume writing and etiquette skills
Prepared and maintained records and case files detailing clients' personal and eligibility information, services provided and relevant correspondence
Consulted with interdisciplinary teams to enhance coordination of care, establish medical clearance and determine optimal timing of further interventions
Customized vocational exploration activities to identify self-determined rehabilitation needs and goals
Evaluated diagnostic data to determine eligibility and needed services
Liaised with community partners to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities
Led vocational assessments for clients with physical, emotional, intellectual and behavioral disabilities
Assisted clients in exploring career options and vocational goals
Mobilized case management system to document service delivery and case progress
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
Paid attention to detail while completing assignments
Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance
Developed strong organizational and communication skills through coursework and volunteer activities
Gained strong leadership skills by managing projects from start to finish
Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others
Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently
Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems
Screened applicant resumes and coordinated both phone and in-person interviews
Applied mediation and collaboration to successfully resolve employee complaints and grievances
Monitored employee attendance and performance to verify punctuality and absences, addressing issues in accordance with company policies and procedures.
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
Department of Veteran Affairs
04.2019 - 01.2022
Negotiated agreements between employees to clarify misunderstood directions and resolve conflicts affecting performance
Monitored social media and online sources for industry trends
Recognized client employment barriers and devised strategies to resolve
Maintained work structure by updating job requirements and job descriptions for all positions
Reviewed, tracked and coordinated employment referrals
Developed job leads in order to increase placements
Interviewed clients and administered assessments to determine employability, including identifying skills and evaluating barriers
Enhanced candidates' potential to find employment by teaching job search skills and holding mock interviews
Reviewed job applications to identify, vet and recommend optimal candidates
Maintained current understanding of state and federal policies such as EEO and ADA
Communicated with potential hires to provide clarity on expected tasks, compensation and policies
Improved quality of hiring decisions by working with hiring managers on new comprehensive employment selection processes
Understood, interpreted and mediated human resources inquiries to support administration of human resources policies, procedures and programs
Provided job placement accommodation recommendations for employees on physician-mandated medical restriction
Provided guidance to managers and employees on talent management, payroll, FMLA and benefits
Executed redesign of organizational structures to enhance team and leadership effectiveness through operational analysis, needs assessments and process mapping
Conducted career fairs, screened resumes and interviewed applicants to build candidate pipelines and enhance company culture
Launched studies to improve alignment between components of organization and organizational framework
Developed and built internal and external relationships with project teams, department managers and consultant teams to improve delivery of HR services.
Education Services Specialist & Facilitator
Department of the Army
05.2014 - 05.2019
Facilitated group briefing sessions on education benefits to Soldiers, family members and civilians
Taught more than 12 classes or workshops per year
Established and maintained rapport with other staff, students, and parents to facilitate communication and academic progress
Administered assessments before, during and after courses
Contributed to positive academic and social tone of school by demonstrating professionalism and enthusiasm for academic community.
Basic Skills Education Program Coordinator & Facilitator
Department of the Army
Formulate strategic plans for the Basic Skills Education Program by establishing operational policies and procedures and make any necessary modifications, based on analysis of operations, and quantitative research information
Planned, implemented, monitored and assessed classroom instructional program
Documented class activities, including attendance and participation, and provided feedback to management
Prepare objectives and outlines for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or requirements of the State of Georgia and Army
Conduct quantitative analysis's, reporting the range of General Technical scores for Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield service members to identify trends and make program adjustments for performance improvement
Collect data and review instructional content, methods, and student evaluations to assess strengths and weaknesses, in order to develop recommendations for course revision, development, or elimination
Collaborate with the Program Manager, Facilitators and the Dean of Students in the implementation and continuous improvement of the Basic Skills Education Program
Determine course schedules, and coordinate teaching assignments and room assignments to ensure optimum use of buildings and equipment
Revise the Basic Skills Education Program, and its Standard Operating Procedures manual
Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by administrative regulations
Publicize the Basic Skills Education Program through sources such as newsletters, Go Army Education bulletins, and social media
Maintain 100% accountability of, $2M dollars' worth of equipment in Fiscal Year 2014- 2017 as the Primary Hand Receipt Book Hand Holder for the Fort Stewart hub, which includes Ft
Stewart, HAAF, and Ft
Gordon, GA; USAG Miami and MacDill AFB, FL; and Ft
Buchanan, Puerto Rico
Query quantitative data for the quarterly Installation Status Report to submit to IMCOM, data submitted reflects the total number of counselor sessions, postsecondary and BSEP enrollment, and Army Personnel Test administered for the Fort Stewart hub
Prepare quantitative data for the end of the Army Continuing Education Service end of year report for Education Service Officer to present the Garrison Commander
Review operating budgets with Chief of Business Operation to analyze trends affecting budget needs
Collaborate with Chief of Business Operation to review the fiscal year budget to purchase needed equipment for the Fort Stewart hub
Advise Chief of Business Operations on purchasing projections for upcoming fiscal year after scrubbing the hand receipt and supply
Coordinate with Chief of Business Operation to compare prices of different vendors to ensure that equipment and supplies are purchased at the best cost
Liaison between vendors and suppliers
Create financial Excel spreadsheets with data and supply elements to project hub needs in both funding and supplies Guidance Counseling
Prepare service members (Active Duty and Active Reserve/National Guard) for educational experiences by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks
Utilize ACES policy and procedure manual, Army Regulation 621-5, to explain the rules and guidelines of using tuition assistance to service Members
Recommend updates and revisions to existing policies
Advise military personnel on educational issues, such as course and program selection, class scheduling and registration, school adjustment, and career planning
Provide students with information on such topics as college degree programs and admission requirements, financial aid opportunities, trade and technical schools, and apprenticeship programs
Refer personnel to the Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness program for educational readiness courses to assist with study skills, test anxiety and improving their memory
Facilitate group briefings to provide up to date changes on Tuition Assistance and eligibility policies
Prepare transcript memorandums for military personnel
Establish Cost Benefit Analysis with service members to determine if their school selection is the most optimal choice
Develop Cost Benefit Analysis with transitioning service members to determine which GI Bill would be the most cost-efficient, as well as discuss ways to achieve their educational goals
Implement educational advisory services to in-processing service members
Correspond with college representatives to verify tuition and fees
Calculate repayment of tuition assistance for out-processing Officers
Facilitate unit briefings on educational benefits, financial aid and promote the usage of tuition assistance
Revise Fiscal Year 2015-2018 Veteran Affairs Educational Benefits guide that is given to Fort Stewart transitioning service members
Coordinates standardized group and/or individual test administration; administers and/or coordinates academic, credentials/certification, entrance, psychological, and vocational interest testing
Administers the center's computer testing pod, to include installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and enhancement of computer/network hardware, software, and peripheral
Plans, develops, and coordinates testing program policies, procedures and schedules Strategic Communication
Create strategic messaging for our annual ACES graduation outreach, both to students who might be eligible and those who had already confirmed
Develop marketing materials to promote the Fort Stewart Annual Graduation Ceremony
Consult with video production company and other vendors to provide services for the Graduation Ceremony Implementation of New Processes
Assist with the development and implementation of the new in-processing procedures for Fort Stewart military members to comply with Operation Order 15-020: Soldier Life Cycle.
Ensured the mission of the contract with the Transition Education Program was being performed according to the Performance Work Statement
Consulted with program supervisor to discuss potential performance issues that could impede the mission of the program
Managed accountability reports to verify that the appropriate educational services were being offered
Constructed monthly reports on class size, clients counseled, and services performed
Incorporated new marketing and advertisement procedures
Scheduled Transition Education classes with the Soldier for Life Program Soldier for Life Transition Counselor
Instructed clients on the use of the Army Career and Alumni Program XXI, automated system to complete pre-separation counseling session
Supported ACAP Center marketing initiatives by briefing installation leaders and managers
Tracked the progress of clients and motivate clients to increase their utilization of ACAP career services
Provided educational counseling services: applying for college admissions, applying for their education benefits and financial aid
Attended events such as job fairs, employer days, or the conduct of a classroom event
Advocated career advising services to military personnel as they pursue their desired career objectives
Facilitated employment workshops of 50-60 military personnel
Reviewed/edited resumes in order to make them workforce ready
Maintained detailed administrative and procedural processes to improve accuracy and efficiency
Verified and logged in deadlines for responding to daily inquiries
Connected with military personnel via phone, email and in person to schedule appointments and provide information about the Army Career Alumni Program
Handled and processed confidential military personnel information.
Transition Counselor
Serco Inc
11.2012 - 11.2013
Aided transitioning military personnel with goal establishment, education plan development, capability and/or needs assessment interpretation, school admission applications, and eligibility determination of education benefits
Delivered information and guidance to transitioning service members regarding their education institutions of interest and assisted with the application for admissions process
Provided support through various methods which included: 1-on-1 counseling sessions, group sessions, virtual counseling sessions
Documented educational goals and counseling remarks in the individuals' education record in GoArmyEd and monitored the Soldier's progress
Interpreted the clients' results from personal assessment tools such as Kuder Journey Career Planning System
Provided information about financial assistance and education benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), Post 9-11 GI Bill, and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, maximizing the use of veterans' education benefits, and other applications for student and financial aid.
Education
Ph.D. - Human Services
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN
11.2023
Master of Science - Human Services
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
01.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Human Services and Counseling
Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, KY
01.2006
Skills
Microsoft Internet Explorer
Change Implementation
Employment Law
Report Generation
Performance Management Strategies
Diverse groups presentations
Monitoring outcomes
Time management
Documentation and reporting
Inquiry-based learning
Excellent administrative abilities
Data integrity
Understanding of medical terms
Prior authorization processing
Multitasking Abilities
Analytical and Critical Thinking
Talent Management
Performance Management
Employment Data Tracking
Project Management
FMLA Comprehension
Policy Optimization
Succession Planning
Networking and Partnership Development
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
Regulatory Compliance
Affirmative Action Guidelines
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Process Enhancement
Trend Modeling
Data Research and Validation
Preliminary Conclusions and Recommendations
Experience
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources.
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Working with Computers — Using computers and computer systems software set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Mentorship- Participated in the Winston-Salem Regional Office Career Assistance Program (January 2024). Ongoing mentorship with Mr. Mike Howard (BEST Supervisor).