Financial Aid Liaison

About the role

The Financial Aid Liaison, specializing in Pell Grant support, assists Pell-eligible students throughout the financial aid process, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to access and maintain their financial aid.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one counseling to Pell Grant-eligible students regarding the financial aid application process—including FAFSA completion, verification, and understanding award packages.
• Aid students in understanding Pell Grant eligibility requirements and how to maintain their aid.
• Work closely with admissions, records, bursar, and academic departments to facilitate a seamless student experience.
• Monitor academic progress of Pell Grant recipients to ensure compliance with Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
• Develop and implement interventions for students at risk of losing financial aid eligibility due to academic or enrollment issues.
• Integrate into college early alert programs as a financial contact for flagged Pell students.
• Collaborate with academic advisors as well as student services and academic areas to support student success initiatives.
• Participate or plan campus events such as orientation, open houses, and financial aid fairs.
• Conduct workshops and seminars on financial literacy topics such as budgeting, debt management, and responsible borrowing (if applicable at the institution).
• Create and distribute educational materials to help students make informed financial decisions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Pell Grant-related inquiries from students, parents, and campus staff.
• Engage community partners/organizations and generally widen the reach of financial aid dissemination in the college’s community.
• Proactively reach out to eligible students who have not applied for financial aid or are facing challenges in the process.
• Comply with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies.
• Maintain accurate records of student interactions, educational and outreach programs offered, as well as other assistance provided.
• Aid in preparing reports related to Pell Grant disbursement, usage, and student outcomes.
• Track College Pell Boost program budget and ensure appropriate recording of expenses.
• Set measurable objectives based on local college needs and track progress throughout the year.
• Follow guidance and requirements as disseminated by the VCCS Program Coordinator.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of student barriers and current evidence-based solutions.
• Experience working with diverse individuals and groups.
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to effectively follow up and follow through.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from underserved populations.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and work effectively with multi-cultural populations that support diversity, cultural understanding and inclusion.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks; work in a demanding, fast-paced environment with changing priorities; and adhere to required timelines meeting work priorities and objectives.
• Demonstrated proficiency using Office 365, Google Suite, and related applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Desire to learn and grow as a professional.

Skills

• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from underserved populations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to effectively follow up and follow through.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from underserved populations.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and work effectively with multi-cultural populations that support diversity, cultural understanding and inclusion.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks; work in a demanding, fast-paced environment with changing priorities; and adhere to required timelines meeting work priorities and objectives.
• Demonstrated proficiency using Office 365, Google Suite, and related applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Desire to learn and grow as a professional.

Benefits

This is a grant-funded position. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College. Position is not eligible for severance benefits under state policy.

Pay

$45,739 to $49,000

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 7:45a to 4:30p. Some evenings and weekends may be required.