Asst. Director, Financial Assistance

Assistant Director of Graduate and Professional Financial Aid

The Assistant Director of Graduate and Professional Financial Aid serves as the primary contact for several graduate programs across various colleges and schools. Additionally, this role acts as the financial aid expert within the Canes Central One Stop Shop Office and sees students in person when necessary. As an integral part of the leadership team, the Assistant Director is responsible for identifying, communicating, and resolving processing issues within the daily operations of the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment.

Responsibilities :

• Management and Coordination : Oversee, coordinate, and ensure compliance in awarding financial aid for all graduate programs and law school programs. Maintain high levels of performance, achieve goals, and ensure quality results. Collaborate directly with the Associate Director, and act as their deputy in ensuring compliance with the Federal, State, and Institutional Policies.
• Financial Aid Processing : Review and analysis awarding report. Process student financial aid applications, including federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Assess student eligibility for various financial aid programs, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and institutional criteria. Conduct thorough verification of student eligibility by reviewing required documentation to confirm the accuracy and completeness of financial information. Identify and resolve discrepancies in financial information and documentation. Utilize all federal databases for secondary verification, when required.
• Awarding and Compliance : Determine and package financial aid awards based on student eligibility, financial need, and available funding. Process all submitted student requests for additional or adjustment to loan package, as assigned. Ensure federal aid is awarded accurately and in conjunction with departmental awards. Certify the accuracy of any external scholarships for awarding purposes.
• Liaison, Representation, and Communication : Meet with students in person at Canes Central when necessary to address financial aid concerns and questions. Advise potential and current students on aid eligibility and processes through in-person conversations, email, and telephone. Disseminate information regarding aid eligibility. Respond promptly to inquiries from students, parents, and stakeholders regarding financial aid eligibility, disbursement, and reconciliation, when applicable. Address and resolve issues related to financial aid processes, ensuring a positive and supportive experience for all students and families. Serve as a liaison with assigned Colleges and Schools and any other related University offices or departments to ensure cohesive and compliant financial aid operations.
• Professional Development : Complete NASFAA Credentials to ensure knowledge of the most current federal policies and best practices. Participate in professional training and continuing education programs to foster personal and professional growth and development.
• Other Duties : Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Minimum Qualifications :

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females / Minorities / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.