Assistant Director, Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)

• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building: Pulitzer Hall
• Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000 annually

Position Summary

The Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), the first of its kind in the journalism industry, is committed to reducing the burden of educational debt for alumni who are dedicating their careers to strengthening local newsrooms.

The Assistant Director of the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) provides strategic and operational leadership for the administration and continuous improvement of the program. This role is responsible for overseeing financial need assessments, managing program operations, and developing policies and procedures that align with institutional priorities and regulatory requirements.

The Assistant Director serves as a key advisor to students, alumni, and University leadership on complex financial aid matters, including debt management strategies and integration with federal loan forgiveness programs. This position exercises independent judgment in decision-making, leads data-driven program evaluation and forecasting, and represents the University in internal and external forums. The role requires a high level of analytical, organizational, and leadership capability. Travel required.

This position is contingent upon the continued availability of grant and/or external funding.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the administration of the LRAP program, ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and alignment with institutional goals.
• Working closely with the Director and leadership, implements and evaluates LRAP policies, procedures, and financial aid packaging strategies.
• Serves as a resource and escalation point for students, alumni, faculty, and administrators regarding LRAP policies, eligibility, and repayment strategies.
• Provides counseling to prospective, current, and former students on LRAP participation, debt management, and coordination with federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Designs and delivers presentations, workshops, and outreach initiatives to educate stakeholders and promote awareness of LRAP offerings.
• Leads data collection, analysis, and reporting efforts to evaluate program effectiveness, identify trends, and inform strategic decision-making.
• Develops financial forecasts and statistical models to support LRAP funding strategies, spending targets, and long-term sustainability.
• Manages LRAP systems and databases, and recommends system enhancements and technology initiatives (e.g., ARC, Slate, PaymentWorks) to improve efficiency and user experience.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations; oversees audit preparation and resolution of compliance-related issues.
• Collaborates with internal departments, including Finance and student services offices, to reconcile accounts, manage disbursements, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Represents the University in external partnerships with peer institutions, government agencies, and professional organizations; participates in conferences and industry forums.
• Develops and maintains all LRAP communications and materials, including policies, procedures, publications, and digital content.
• Leads marketing and outreach strategies to increase program visibility, engagement, and participation among eligible populations.
• Oversees the full lifecycle of LRAP application processing, including review, documentation, award communication, and record maintenance.
• Manages multiple funding streams, including institutional aid, LRAP funds, and federal/private loan programs, ensuring effective allocation and fiscal responsibility.
• Working closely with the Director, establishes key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitors program outcomes to drive continuous improvement.
• Advises partners and constituents on program strategy, regulatory changes, risk management, and opportunities for growth or innovation.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and/or equivalent related experience
• Minimum 3-5 years of related experience
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and counseling skills
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex programs and multiple priorities
• Proficiency with student information and financial aid systems (e.g., PowerFAIDS, Slate, SIS, Access preferred)
• Knowledge of federal, state, and private financial aid regulations and need analysis methodologies
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and decision-making
• Willingness to travel and work evenings/weekends as needed
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• Experience working with adult learners, domestic and international students
• Experience in financial aid within journalism or other professional schools
• Experience with program forecasting, financial modeling, or strategic planning

Other Requirements

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.