Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Karen Ambellas-Cates

Gray,GA

Summary

Accomplished Lead Financial Professional and Business Office Manager at Georgia Military College, adept in Financial Aid Administration and fostering strong relationships. Demonstrated success in enhancing student satisfaction and retention through effective communication and strategic financial aid counseling. Spearheaded initiatives improving service delivery by implementing efficient processes, showcasing a blend of supervisory expertise and personable engagement.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Financial Aid Coach/Business Office Manager

Georgia Military College
04.2014 - Current
  • Lead a team of 2 - 6 financial aid staff members, including hiring, training, and performance management.
  • Develop and implement financial aid policies and procedures in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
  • Provide financial aid counseling for all student athletes and military cadet population.
  • Oversee military scholarship programs, make awards, invoice for payment and assist in reconciliations.
  • Process tuition payments, refunds, and other student account transactions in coordination with the main office.
  • Assist in the preparation of monthly financial reports and reconciliation of accounts.
  • Manage student billing and collection activities, ensuring timely payment and resolution of outstanding balances.
  • Collaborate with the financial aid office to resolve student account issues and discrepancies.
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, and staff to facilitate effective communication and problem-solving.

Financial Aid Counselor

Georgia Military College
03.2010 - 04.2014
  • Communicated with prospective students to illustrate available financial aid opportunities.
  • Provided financial aid counseling to enrolled and prospective students.
  • Reviewed initial financial aid applications for accuracy and compliance with reporting standards.
  • Developed material for financial aid awareness.
  • Active member of GASFAA and SASFAA organizations
  • Attended regular annual training.

Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Georgia Military College
04.1994 - 03.2010
  • Supervised 10 financial aid staff members, including hiring, training, and performance management.
  • Provided training and performed financial aid and VA auditing for satellite campuses.
  • Analyzed financial aid data to identify trends and areas for improvement in service delivery and resource allocation.
  • Implemented successful outreach programs, raising awareness of financial aid opportunities among prospective students.
  • Assisted in preparing annual budgets for the office of Financial Aid, ensuring adequate funding for key services and initiatives.
  • Strengthened relationships with external partners such as lenders, scholarship organizations, and community groups to maximize resources available to students.
  • Established a culture of continuous improvement within the Financial Aid office, promoting a proactive approach to problem-solving and process enhancement.
  • Developed comprehensive training materials for new staff members, increasing overall departmental efficiency.
  • Improved student satisfaction with financial aid services by providing clear communication and timely assistance.
  • Evaluated complex cases involving special circumstances and appeals, making fair determinations based on individual situations.
  • Streamlined financial aid processes by implementing efficient workflow systems and reducing processing time.
  • Conducted regular audits of departmental procedures to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations governing financial aid administration.
  • Supervised the administration of federal, state, and institutional funds according to regulations and guidelines.
  • Provided ongoing professional development opportunities for staff members to stay current on industry best practices and regulatory updates.
  • Collaborated with other departments to create a seamless enrollment process for students seeking financial assistance.
  • Provided expert guidance to students and families on available funding options, helping them make informed decisions about their education.
  • Assisted in development of student financial aid plans and packages.
  • Member of GASFAA, SASFAA and GAVCO organizations.
  • Attended annual training.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Legal Assistance

Georgia College And State University
Milledgeville, GA
05.1991

Skills

  • Financial Aid Administration
  • Supervisory Experience
  • Business Office Operations
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Effective Communication
  • Group leadership
  • Personable and friendly
  • Building Relationships
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Communication abilities

Timeline

Lead Financial Aid Coach/Business Office Manager

Georgia Military College
04.2014 - Current

Financial Aid Counselor

Georgia Military College
03.2010 - 04.2014

Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Georgia Military College
04.1994 - 03.2010

Bachelor of Science - Legal Assistance

Georgia College And State University

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Karen Ambellas-Cates