Senior Director of Financial Aid - Lansing, United States - InsideHigherEd

Description

Senior Director of Financial Aid

Lansing Community College, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of The Senior Director of Financial Aid. Lansing Community College seeks an experienced financial aid professional to serve in this important role. The Senior Director of Financial Aid, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, is the chief administrator in the administration, planning, and delivery of all provisions of the student financial assistance regulations (Title IV of the Higher Education Opportunity Act) to promote sound fiscal management, regulatory compliance, student access, and the Strategic Plan. This position ensures compliance with all federal and state laws, regulations, statutes, codes, policies, procedures, and rules including the College's policies and procedures as they relate to financial aid. The Senior Director leads campus efforts for all Title IV compliance requirements such as academic program eligibility, default prevention, federal reporting (gainful employment, enrollment, fiscal operations and application to participate, campus crime, drug and alcohol prevention, etc.), consumer information and disclosures, and program participation agreement. The Senior Director is the expert on financial aid and Title IV compliance to assure maximum funding and continued participation in all student financial assistance programs. The selected candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the diversity of a multi-cultural population, as well as work effectively in a team-based environment, seeking continuous improvement and adherence to the community college philosophy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Chief administrator in the administration, planning, and delivery of all provisions of the student financial assistance regulations (Title IV of the Higher Education Opportunity Act) to promote sound fiscal management, regulatory compliance, student access, and the Strategic Plan. This position ensures compliance with all federal and state laws, regulations, statutes, codes, policies, procedures, and rules including the College's policies and procedures as they relate to financial aid.
• Leads campus efforts for all Title IV compliance requirements such as academic program eligibility, default prevention, federal reporting (gainful employment, enrollment, fiscal operations and application to participate, campus crime, drug and alcohol prevention, etc.), consumer information and disclosures, and program participation agreement. Collaborates across divisions and recommends new and revised college policies and procedures.
• Expert on financial aid and Title IV compliance working with a high level of independence and exercising a high degree of initiative and judgment under only minimal guidance to assure maximum funding and continued participation in all student financial assistance programs. Remains current in laws, regulations, policies, practices, and regional and national trends that affect LCC and establishes plans to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Develops internal controls utilizing effective understanding of college policies and procedures and expert knowledge of federal and state regulations in order to safeguard the College's liability risk and to promote operational efficiencies.
• Directs and manages human resource, information system and professional development needs, service contracts, and budget accountability of the Financial Aid Office.
• Provides leadership to develop constructive solutions for strategic initiatives, measurement, communication, and continuous improvement of financial aid. Develop and implement a comprehensive plan for the delivery of financial aid through partnerships with other divisions, institutions, and the community.
• Exhibits model leadership and directs activities of the financial aid senior staff ensuring they are equipped with the tools, information and direction necessary to administer day-to-day operations and outreach by fostering an environment of open communication, creative ideas, and a commitment to service. Timely completes performance reviews for direct reports.
• Primary contact for internal and external groups including auditors and the U. S. Department of Education (DOE) for information, data, and problem resolution.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; master's degree preferred.
• Significant experience managing the operations of financial aid.
• Significant administrative or leadership experience in higher education.
• Significant supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large organizational segments in a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Expert knowledge of all federal, state, and institutional regulations, laws, policies, procedures, and rules.
• Excellent understanding of all enrollment management and student services trends, strategies and challenges facing community colleges.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse constituencies, including faculty, staff, students, and the community.
• Excellent leadership and supervisory skills, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Provide direction and leadership to College community and staff on all student financial aid and Title IV compliance issues.
• Provide vision and long-range planning in support of College goals and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Budget management experience preferred.

About Lansing Community College:

Lansing Community College is one of the largest community colleges in Michigan, serving more than 14,500 students each year. It offers a multitude of associate degrees and certificate programs in addition to career and workforce development and personal enrichment options. The college was founded in 1957 and has since grown from its flagship campus in downtown Lansing to include locations in Delta Township, East Lansing, Mason, and Livingston County. LCC is consistently named one of Michigan's best community colleges, and students enjoy unsurpassed instruction, beautiful facilities, cutting-edge technology and comprehensive support services to help them succeed.

The mission of LCC is to provide high-quality education ensuring that all students successfully complete their educational goals while developing life skills necessary for them to enrich and support themselves, their families, and their community as engaged global citizens.

About the Community:

Lansing, Michigan, the vibrant capital city, is located in the center of the state. With a population of approximately 110,000 residents, the city is known for its rich historical heritage and dynamic cultural landscape. Home to three colleges and universities, it fosters an intellectually stimulating environment enriched by premier institutions like the Michigan History Center and the Impression 5 Science Center. The city's River Trail presents picturesque opportunities for walking and biking along the scenic Grand River, while Potter Park Zoo provides enriching family-friendly experiences. Lansing's vibrant art scene, epitomized by the Lansing Art Gallery and the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, underscores its commitment to cultural excellence. Whether delving into the architectural splendor of the historic State Capitol building or engaging in the spirited atmosphere of MSU Spartan Stadium, Lansing offers a multifaceted blend of educational, cultural, and recreational activities.

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Senior Director of Financial Aid at Lansing Community College should be directed in confidence to the College's executive search consultant:

Adam Barrett, Associate Vice President

Scott Healy & Associates

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Three (3) professional references with contact information, title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by July 10, 2024 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Lansing Community College provides equal opportunity for all persons and prohibits discriminatory practices based on race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, creed, ancestry, height, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, familial status, marital status, military status, veteran's status, or other status as protected by law, or genetic information that is unrelated to the person's ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position or participate in educational programs, courses, services or activities offered by the College.