Director of Financial Aid

Director of Financial Aid

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Financial Aid provides strategic leadership andday-to-day administration of all federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. This role ensures regulatory compliance, supportsenrollment and retention goals, and delivers exceptional service to students and families throughout the financial aid process. The Directorserves as the institution's principal financial aid authority and works collaboratively across divisions to advance the mission of MorrisCollege.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead and manage all aspects of the financial aid office, includingstaff supervision, budget oversight, and operational planning. Develop and implement financial aid packaging strategies alignedwith enrollment and retention goals. Ensure full compliance with Title IV federal regulations, state aid programs, andinstitutional policies. Oversee administration of all aid programs including Pell Grant, Direct Loans, SEOG, Work-Study, SC TuitionGrants, and institutional scholarships. Manage the annual awarding process and maintain accurate student aid records within theStudent Information System (SIS). Serve as the institution's primary liaison with the U.S. Department of Education, state agencies,and accrediting bodies. Prepare and submit all required federal and state reports, including FISAP and IPEDS. Collaboratewith Admissions, Bursar, Registrar, and Academic Affairs to support student success and institutional goals. Counsel students andfamilies on financial aid options, satisfactory academic progress (SAP), and loan repayment obligations. Train and developfinancial aid staff on regulatory updates, best practices, and customer service standards. Monitor financial aid budgets and reporton aid utilization to senior leadership. Stay current on changes to federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations andcommunicate updates across the division.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree required; master'sdegree strongly preferred. Minimum of 5 years of progressive financial aid experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisoryor leadership role. In-depth, demonstrated knowledge of Title IV federal financial aid regulations and compliance requirements. Hands-on experience with financial aid management systems (Banner, PowerFAIDS, or equivalent). Proven ability to managecompeting priorities in a deadline-driven, student-centered environment. Strong analytical, organizational, written, andinterpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated commitment to equity, access, and student success.

PREFERREDQUALIFICATIONS

Experience at an HBCU or small private liberal arts institution. Familiarity with South Carolinastate aid programs and state agency relationships. Experience integrating financial aid strategy within a broader enrollmentmanagement model. Knowledge of default management strategies and federal loan counseling best practices. Pleasesend cover letter, resume, transcripts and list of three references to alawson@morris.edu