Lidia Varon
Miami,FL
Summary
Data- and operations-focused professional with 10+ years of experience supporting complex, regulated environments within higher education and federally funded programs. Strong background in data reconciliation, process documentation, compliance, and cross-functional coordination. Experienced translating operational and administrative data into accurate reports, workflows, and actionable insights. Advanced user of Workday, reporting tools, and process-mapping documentation. Currently pursuing an M.S. in Data Analytics to further strengthen analytical, modeling, and data-driven decision-making skills.
Dedicated professional prepared to bring extensive expertise and results-oriented approach to Specialist role. Known for effectively managing tasks and supporting organizational goals through collaborative efforts and adaptive strategies. Recognized for excellent communication and analytical skills, ensuring seamless operations and consistent outcomes.
Experienced with specialized task execution and strategic implementation. Utilizes effective problem-solving techniques to enhance operational processes. Track record of fostering team collaboration and ensuring project success.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Sponsored Programs Specialist
University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies
Coral Gables, FL
05.2023 - Current
- - Prepared over 127 NIH and other sponsor grant applications, ensuring accuracy and compliance with institutional and agency requirements.
- - Develop, monitor, and reconcile sponsored project budgets and expenditures using Workday and BI reports.
- - Analyze salary distributions, effort allocations, re-budgeting actions, and cost adjustments.
- - Coordinate with faculty, department administrators, and the Office of Research Administration.
- - Maintain proposal, award, sub award, and amendment records in IBIS.
- - Review expenditures for compliance with federal and university policies.
- - Submit and track invoices and manage subcontract documentation, including foreign sub recipients.
- - Serve as liaison with federal agencies and manage administrative procedures.
- - Support payroll accounting adjustments, reimbursements, purchase orders, and journals in Workday.
- Coordinated research initiatives to enhance nursing curriculum and health studies programs.
- Developed training materials for faculty and students, improving instructional quality and engagement.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to streamline project workflows and improve communication processes.
- Implemented data tracking systems to monitor student performance and program effectiveness.
- Analyzed feedback from stakeholders to refine educational strategies and enhance student outcomes.
- Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
- Improved customer satisfaction rates through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
International Student Advisor (Designated School Official)
St. Thomas University – Division of Student Affairs
Miami Gardens, FL
10.2022 - 03.2023
- - Served as Designated School Official (DSO) and primary liaison to SEVP, USCIS, and SEVIS.
- - Maintained and audited student immigration records to ensure federal compliance.
- - Implemented regulatory updates and interpreted DHS/ICE guidance.
- - Issued I-20s, travel endorsements, and institutional support letters.
- - Advised students on enrollment, employment, travel, and reinstatement matters.
- Developed and implemented orientation programs for international students, enhancing cultural integration and support.
- Collaborated with campus departments to address international student needs, improving cross-departmental communication and services.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Acted as a team leader in group projects, delegating tasks and providing feedback.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
Administrative Assistant
St. Thomas University – Division of Student Affairs
Miami Gardens, FL
01.2021 - 10.2022
- - Reconciled procurement and travel card transactions.
- - Monitored budgets, grants, contracts, payroll, and purchasing.
- - Supervised and trained 15+ work-study students per semester.
- - Prepared business expenses and reimbursements in Workday.
- - Maintained data integrity and performed audits and corrections.
- - Managed COVID-19 contact tracing and reporting for students.
- Resolved problems, improved operations, and provided exceptional service.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Acted as a team leader in group projects, delegating tasks and providing feedback.
Administrative Assistant
University of Miami – School of Education and Human Development
Coral Gables, FL
09.2017 - 06.2020
- - Supported budget tracking, payroll reconciliation, and grant-funded expenditures.
- - Generated and reviewed Workday HR and finance reports.
- - Assisted with faculty hiring, onboarding, and HR documentation.
- - assisted with all payroll related issues such as payroll accounting adjustment, costings allocations, and teaching overload payments
- - Created training guides and process documentation for Workday users.
- - Processed journals, POs, wire transfers, and reimbursements.
- - Managed temporary employees as well as work study students
- Demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness through the development of innovative solutions.
- Resolved problems, improved operations, and provided exceptional service.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Identified issues, analyzed information, and provided solutions to problems.
- Versatile professional with strong problem-solving skills and history of adapting to diverse challenges. Applies innovative solutions and technical expertise to deliver exceptional results. Committed to streamlining processes and advancing organizational objectives.
Account Specialist
Astor Property Management
Coral Gables, FL
05.2016 - 04.2017
- - Managed tenant and owner financial accounts and reconciliations.
- - Processed rents, deposits, fees, and payments using Yardi.
- - Maintained ledger accuracy and prepared financial notices.
- - Oversaw move-in and move-out lease processing.
- Managed client accounts, ensuring timely communication and resolution of issues.
- Developed and implemented process improvements to streamline account management workflows.
- Analyzed financial reports to identify trends, improving budget accuracy and forecasting.
- Reviewed account activity to assess financial status and evaluate discrepancies.
- Reconciled customer accounts and identified discrepancies for further investigation.
Financial Aid Advisor
Broward College
Downtown, Fort Lauderdale
05.2010 - 07.2014
- - Advised students on financial aid eligibility and processes.
- - Processed verification, scholarships, and federal aid documentation.
- - Managed work-study students and supported call center operations.
- - Ensured compliance with Department of Education reporting requirements.
- Advised students on financial aid options and eligibility requirements.
- Mentored junior advisors, fostering professional development within the team.
- Provided exceptional customer service to students, parents, faculty, and staff seeking assistance with financial aid matters.
- Helped college students obtain financial aid through loan programs.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
Education
Master of Science - Data Analytics
Eastern University
PA05-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Organizational Leadership
St. Thomas University
Miami Gardens, FL12-2023
Skills
- Budget Development & Forecasting
- Financial Reconciliation
- Variance Analysis
- Workday Finance & HCM
- Reporting & Data Validation
- Process Improvement
- Compliance Management
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Excel (Advanced)
- Visio
- Data Documentation
- Customer relations
- Expert problem solving
- Analytical thinking
- Documentation management
Languages
English (main)
Spanish
Timeline
Senior Sponsored Programs Specialist
University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies
05.2023 - Current
International Student Advisor (Designated School Official)
St. Thomas University – Division of Student Affairs
10.2022 - 03.2023
Administrative Assistant
St. Thomas University – Division of Student Affairs
01.2021 - 10.2022
Administrative Assistant
University of Miami – School of Education and Human Development
09.2017 - 06.2020
Account Specialist
Astor Property Management
05.2016 - 04.2017
Financial Aid Advisor
Broward College
05.2010 - 07.2014
Master of Science - Data Analytics
Eastern University
Bachelor of Arts - Organizational Leadership
St. Thomas University