Financial Aid Advocate

Job Title: Financial Aid Advocate Location: Georgia Gwinnett College Regular/Temporary: Regular Full/Part Time: Full-Time Job ID: 273832 About Us Since our founding in 2005, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) has been dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience to our students. At GGC, we believe that our students' success is our success, and we are committed to creating a culture that supports and uplifts them throughout their academic journey. As a member of our faculty or staff, you will become part of a dedicated and passionate community of educators and professionals. Together, we work towards a common goal of empowering our students to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally. We take pride in our student body, which represents a multitude of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Whether you are involved in teaching or providing essential services, your contribution will make a significant impact on the lives of our students and the broader community. In addition to our commitment to student success, we also value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, designed to support the needs of our faculty and staff. From competitive compensation to health and wellness programs, and professional development opportunities to work-life balance initiatives, we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued. Located in the thriving community of Gwinnett County, GGC offers a rich cultural and social landscape that enhances the overall college experience. Our backdrop is a beautiful, modern 260-acre campus located just 30 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Our students and employees benefit from the close proximity to various local amenities, including shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This vibrant community serves as an extension of our campus, providing a stimulating environment for personal and professional growth. Join GGC and become part of a dynamic team that plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives and celebrating the achievements of our students. Together, let's make a positive impact and empower the next generation of leaders. Job Summary The Financial Aid Advocate is a member of the Financial Aid Customer Service team and is responsible for advising students and their families of financial aid, including eligibility and awarding of federal, state, local, private and institutional aid. The Advocate keeps current on financial aid policies and regulations in order for proper awarding and disbursement of financial aid. Additionally, the Advocate schedules and conducts virtual appointments, answers call center tickets, and participates in call center financial aid training. This individual is expected to play a key role in fostering a positive work environment with the expectation of continuous improvement and first-class customer service. The position will also provide leadership to the Enrollment Management Services Division. Collaborative and team-oriented skills with a commitment to student success are essential attributes to this position. Responsibilities Schedules and conducts virtual appointments; meets with students and parents concerning federal, state and institutional programs; provides face-to-face and external financial aid counseling to students and parents.; counsels students regarding satisfactory academic progress requirements and related aspects; accepts and reviews documents Processes and notifies students of financial aid eligibility for incoming and continuing transfer and/or student abroad students; responds to correspondence (phone calls, e-mails and Call Center tickets) Meets with students and parents concerning student loan processes and deadlines for applying for aid; provides guidance in completing the required forms; advises students and parents of loan requirements and processes; provides directions regarding the awarding of loans to students and how the process of allocating funds to student accounts occurs Consults with students on how to research additional avenues for funding specifically related to students who owe balances or have extenuating financial circumstances Researches and interprets student financial aid program guidelines to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and program requirements Participates in the preparation for, and execution of, outreach programs and initiatives offered by the Office of Financial Aid Services, GGC campus partners and/or community partners; makes recommendations for potential outreach activities and initiatives; conducts financial aid presentations on and off campus Participates in national, regional, and state conferences pertaining to student financial aid programs, practices, and related technology and communicates information that may be needed by other GGC departments Serves on campus committees; performs other duties as assigned Required Qualifications 4 Year / Bachelor's Degree Experience in providing services to a range of students Experience in the use of technology including Microsoft Office and other software applications Experience with database systems Experience in providing customer service Preferred Qualifications Experience with Banner Experience working in a Registrar's office or institution of higher education Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Ability to work with a variety of populations Ability to adapt to a fast paced work environment Ability to handle multiple assignments and responsibilities at the same time Ability to be detail oriented Ability to maintain confidentiality of information Knowledge of, and skills in the use of, computer applications Skills in verbal and written communications Skills in the delivery of informative customer service USG Core Values The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at (). Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at (). Conditions of Employment Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States and proof of eligibility will be contemporaneously required upon acceptance of an employment offer. Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC). Eligibility of employment is determined by GGC in its sole discretion, and includes but is not limited to confirmation of credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are subject to the applicable federal laws, state laws, statutes, rules and regulations of this institution, and to the bylaws and policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request. Equal Employment Opportunity Georgia Gwinnett College is an equal employment, equal access, equal educational opportunity, and affirmative action institution. GGC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, sex (including pregnancy or childbirth), veteran status or military status, genetic information, or disability in employment or admission or access to its programs and activities, as required by Title IX. Inquiries including anyone who feels they have been discriminated against should contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX compliance and direct concerns to the GGC Title IX Coordinator, Building B, Suite 3700, or . For individuals requiring disability-related accommodations for participation in any event including the application, interview process, or to obtain print materials in an alternative format, please contact HR Payroll and Benefits at 407.5054 or email . Background Check Position of Trust + Education Other Information Due to the volume of applications, applicants may not receive a reply from the College unless an applicant is selected for an interview. Review of applications will continue until positions are filled. Georgia is an open records state.

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