Location: Bristol, RI Category: Professional and Clerical Posted On: Wed Oct 30 2024 Job Description:
Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Assistant Director is responsible for supporting the work of the Office of Financial Assistance in stewarding the University's financial aid resources. The Assistant Director reviews a case load of prospective and returning students, working with all populations applying for aid, to advise on financing options and payment plans. The Assistant Director presents for, and represents, the University in regards to financial aid at recruitment and student events.
Financial Aid Case Review
Counsel and advise students and parents on financial aid packages and make recommendations regarding loan programs and all other aspects of the financial aid process.
Review and verify student financial aid information to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Determine entire financial aid award for each student file in the assigned alpha split case load.
Counsel new and continuing students and their families regarding financial aid process, financing options, and payment plans, as well as processing federal, state, institutional, and private aid.
Provide exceptional customer service to current and prospective RWU families and students.
Field Presentations & Event Participation
Participate in the development of presentation materials, and deliver presentations and workshops relative to financial assistance.
Participate in all University events that require representatives from the Department of Financial Aid, including but not limited to: Accepted Students Days, Orientations, Open Houses, and Student Recruitment Events, opening weekend for all Undergraduate and Graduate events.
Financial Aid Program Administration
Review all assigned alpha split case files and administer, Military Benefits, and Title IV refunds.
Post available grants and loans from the Financial Aid Package and certify student eligibility.
Post refunds to students and parents once eligibility is determined, if appropriate.
Reconciliation of Financial Aid funds on a monthly basis.
Administer the FWS Program (responsible for FISAP report, tracking spending and the 7% community match)
Abide by the Policies and Procedures of the Office of Financial Assistance
Participate in the setup of Powerfaids and Colleague
University Representation
Maintain knowledge and understanding of national trends in higher education, particularly in the areas of financial aid and enrollment management.
Present on and off-campus financial aid informational sessions.
Present on financial aid and/or University-related topics as assigned to various constituencies.
Participate in University committees, as assigned.
Additional Functions
Participate in any initiatives for the department and the division, as assigned.
Job Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance or a related field.
Minimum of three years of Financial Aid experience or experience within higher education.
Proven experience with financial aid software, or comparable software.
Knowledge of policies, regulations and practices for awarding financial aid.
Ability to effectively respond to student, parents, and educational organization questions and statements in a cooperative and courteous manner.
Ability to work independently with minimum instruction and supervision, adhere to prescribed routines and practices, maintain records, and to create reports requiring accuracy.
Ability to play a key role in bringing new students into programs and provide them with the opportunity to achieve their personal goals.
Ability to work with families from diverse backgrounds and from varying socio-economic means, in support of the University's strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Medium to strong skills using computer programs, including advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills, specifically Excel, as well as comfort using and learning other systems.
Excellent time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with the PowerFAIDS Financial Aid system strongly preferred.
At the University's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be excepted where the candidate can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the University, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Additional Information:
Roger Williams University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable state and federal law. For information on our Non-discrimination policy, visit here.
RWU prohibits all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex in its education programs and activities and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and its implementing regulations not to discriminate in such a manner. Complaints of Title IX sexual harassment should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator at the contact information listed below. Details regarding the formal complaint process can be found here: Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures. All complaints of sexual harassment will be taken seriously and responded to promptly. TITLE IX COORDINATOR: Dr. Jen Stanley, 1 Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809 / Phone Number: (401) 254-3123 /Email Address: jstanley@rwu.edu.
