Job Description
The mission of Wytheville Community College is to provide a quality, comprehensive education for the citizens of the counties of Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, and Wythe and the city of Galax. To achieve this mission and to fulfill its role as an educational leader and partner, Wytheville Community College commits to a student-centered environment by: providing programs and courses in occupational-technical education, college transfer education, general education, developmental education, distance education, continuing education, and workforce development; utilizing a broad range of instructional technologies, methods, materials, and facilities that are designed to meet the diverse needs of students; offering a supportive, comprehensive program of student development services that contribute to student persistence, success, and citizenship; fueling regional and state economic development by forging partnerships with businesses, industries, public agencies, civic groups, public schools, and other institutions of higher education not only within the service region but throughout the Commonwealth; promoting Appalachian Culture and cultural opportunities of Southwest Virginia; promoting accessibility; promoting accessibility and affordability; and ensuring quality in all programs and services.
The Financial Aid Liaison specializing in Pell Grant support is responsible for assisting Pell-eligible students throughout the financial aid process, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to access and maintain their financial aid. This non-exempt position focuses on providing personalized support, improving student retention, and enhancing financial literacy among Pell Grant recipients.
Responsibilities:Financial Aid Counseling:
• Provide one-on-one counseling to Pell Grant-eligible students regarding the financial aid application process—including FAFSA completion, verification, and understanding award packages.
• Assist students in understanding Pell Grant eligibility requirements and how to maintain their aid.
• Work closely with admissions, records, bursar, and academic departments to facilitate a seamless student experience.
Student Support and Retention:
• Monitor academic progress of Pell Grant recipients to ensure compliance with Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
• Develop and implement interventions for students at risk of losing financial aid eligibility due to academic or enrollment issues.
• Integrate into college early alert programs as a financial contact for flagged Pell students
• Collaborate with academic advisors as well as student services and academic areas to support student success initiatives.
• Participate or plan campus events such as orientation, open houses, and financial aid fairs.
Financial Literacy Education:
• Conduct workshops and seminars on financial literacy topics such as budgeting, debt management, and responsible borrowing (if applicable at the institution).
• Create and distribute educational materials to help students make informed financial decisions.
Outreach and Communication:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Pell Grant-related inquiries from students, parents, and campus staff.
• Engage community partners/organizations and generally widen the reach of financial aid dissemination in the college’s community
• Community outreach and connection with community partners, may include evenings and weekends
• Proactively reach out to eligible students who have not applied for financial aid or are facing challenges in the process.
Compliance and Reporting:
• Comply with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies.
• Maintain accurate records of student interactions, educational and outreach programs offered, as well as other assistance provided.
• Assist in preparing reports related to Pell Grant disbursement, usage, and student outcomes.
• Track College Pell Boost program budget and ensure appropriate recording of expenses
• Set measurable objectives based on local college needs and track progress throughout the year
• Follow guidance and requirements as disseminated by the VCCS Program Coordinator
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
· Knowledge of student barriers and current evidence-based solutions· Experience working with diverse individuals and groups
· Strong interpersonal skills and effective problem-solving skills
· Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to effectively follow up and follow through
· Knowledge of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from underserved populations
· Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and work effectively with multi-cultural populations that support diversity, cultural understanding and inclusion· Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks; work in a demanding, fast-paced environment with changing priorities; and adhere to required timelines meeting work priorities and objectives
· Demonstrated proficiency using Office 365, Google Suite, and related applications
· Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment
· Desire to learn and grow as a professional
· Ability to track program outcomes, set measurable objectives, and work toward those targets
Additional Considerations
· Demonstrated experience in higher education areas such as financial aid, academic/career coaching, or advising· Experience using tools such as EAB Navigate, PeopleSoft SIS, & Canvas
Operation of a State Vehicle No
Supervises Employees No
Required Travel
May be required to travel for training and to other off-site locations.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number CLS_3478P
Recruitment Type General Public - G
Number of Vacancies 1
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date 12/18/2024
Job Close Date 01/13/2025
Open Until Filled
Agency Website www.wcc.vccs.edu
Contact Name Malinda Poole Eversole
Email HR@wcc.vccs.edu
Phone Number (276) 223-4869
Special Instructions to Applicants
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth’s Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly called a Certificate of Disability) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans may also apply via the AHP if they also provide an AHP Letter. To request an AHP Letter, use this link:
https://www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155
Additional Information
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate’s offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth’s Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System, an EEO employer, welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and recognizes the benefits of a diverse workforce. Therefore, the VCCS is committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications. We prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, mental or physical disabilities, political affiliation, veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The VCCS is an EOE and Affirmative Action Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), VCCS will provide, if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing and selection processes.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/80104
