Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

LAUREN BURNS

Wichita

Summary

Adaptable and detail-oriented Financial Aid professional with over 10 years of experience in higher education and financial services. Proven track record of optimizing financial aid operations, improving student service delivery, and ensuring strict regulatory compliance. Extensive experience in data management, records processing, and information system operations, with a strong ability to leverage technology platforms to enhance operational workflows. Adept in federal financial aid regulations, student counseling, data analysis, and team leadership. Recognized for strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Financial Aid Director

WellSpring School of Allied Health
08.2022 - Current
  • - Direct and manage all aspects of the financial aid process.
  • - Conduct financial aid counseling for prospective and current students.
  • - Oversee FAFSA submissions, packaging, and verification processes.
  • - Administer student payment plans and certify VA and Vocational Rehabilitation benefits.
  • - Coordinate R2T4 calculations and manage account balances.
  • - Streamline workflows to improve service delivery and satisfaction.
  • - Stay current on financial aid regulations through training.

Financial Aid Director

Paul Mitchell the School
08.2018 - 08.2022
  • - Led all financial aid operations including FAFSA processing and award distribution.
  • - Delivered financial counseling and certified VA and Vocational Rehabilitation students.
  • - Managed SAP evaluations and guided students on eligibility processes.
  • - Implemented process improvements and maintained Title IV compliance.

Financial Aid Director

DJA Financial Aid Services
01.2014 - 08.2018
  • - Reviewed financial aid applications for over 12 client schools.
  • - Oversaw verification and ensured federal compliance.
  • - Provided training to campus staff, improving efficiency.
  • - Maintained client relationships and regulatory awareness.

Dealer Assist Agent

Ally Financial
05.2011 - 12.2013
  • - Point of contact for auto dealers regarding loan accounts.
  • - Promoted to Dealer Assist Team handling escalated issues.
  • - Conducted research, generated legal documents, and provided service.
  • - Assisted in training new hires in customer service and compliance.

Education

High School Diploma -

Northwest High School
Wichita, Kansas
05.2012

Skills

  • Financial Aid Systems: NSLDS, COD
  • Veterans Benefits Administration: School Certifying Official
  • VR&E Service Provider: School Certifying Official
  • Federal Regulations: Title IV, FAFSA Processing, R2T4 Compliance
  • Student Counseling & Advising
  • Project Management & Process Improvement
  • Data Analysis & Reporting
  • Verbal and Written Communication
  • Leadership and Staff Development
  • Payment plans
  • Verification processes
  • Microsoft office
  • Documentation
  • Application analysis
  • Document tracking
  • File monitoring
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Critical thinking

Timeline

Financial Aid Director

WellSpring School of Allied Health
08.2022 - Current

Financial Aid Director

Paul Mitchell the School
08.2018 - 08.2022

Financial Aid Director

DJA Financial Aid Services
01.2014 - 08.2018

Dealer Assist Agent

Ally Financial
05.2011 - 12.2013

High School Diploma -

Northwest High School