Director of Financial Aid

Overview

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

• Health & Wellness:
  Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness:
  Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development:
  Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks:
  Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

Howard University is seeking an innovative and collaborative Executive Director of Financial Aid to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Office of Financial Aid. The Executive Director is responsible for ensuring the successful administration of all institutional, federal, state, local, and private financial aid and scholarship programs. The Executive Director is responsible for accurate and efficient financial aid processing, operations, and customer service while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal laws, regulations, institutional policies and procedures, and donor restrictions.

The Executive Director plays a key role in supporting the University’s enrollment, retention, and net tuition revenue goals through the development and implementation of effective financial aid strategies. As a member of the Enrollment Management Leadership Team, the Executive Director collaborates closely with other units within Enrollment Management and Student Success, colleges/schools and academic departments, Development and Alumni Relations, and other administrative and student services units.

A critical partnership exists with the Office of the Bursar, with whom the Executive Director works directly to ensure seamless coordination of student billing, outside scholarship and third-party payments, aid disbursement, and student account resolution.

The Executive Director is also responsible for promoting a student-centered culture by educating students and their families about college financing options, empowering them to make informed financial decisions. The role includes fostering professional development among staff and cultivating a service-oriented environment focused on student success.

Responsible for general oversight of Financial Aid Team Members.

• Serve as University’s Chief Financial Aid Administrator for Title IV, Title VII, and Institutional Aid.
• Monitor and analyze federal Title IV, Title VII and Title IX, NCAA, state, institutional and other applicable regulations to guide and coordinate necessary financial aid policy, system and procedural changes for the Office of Financial Aid and the University in general.
• Collaborate with the Vice President for Enrollment Management to develop annual financial aid budgets, policies, and procedures that support enrollment and strategic plan objectives.
• Responsible for leveraging the University’s institutional aid programs to support enrollment, net tuition revenue, and comply with budgetary needs of the University. Specifically responsible for supporting recruitment and retention efforts through strategic assessment and leveraging of financial aid programs.
• Serve as key administrator within Enrollment Management. Collaborate with other Enrollment Management units to create streamlined student enrollment experience.
• Work with University leadership on all issues concerning Financial Aid.
• Review and submit the University’s annual Fiscal Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP), Program Participation Agreement (PPA) and Eligibility and Certification Approval report (ECAR).
• Act as primary Financial Aid contact for compliance and financial audits and reviews.
• Conduct formal and ad hoc training sessions for entire Financial Aid staff and cross functional training for other…