ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA -- Michelle Hare, director of Winthrop University’s Office of Financial Aid, has earned the prestigious designation of Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) from the CFAA Commission, the independent certifying body of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).
Hare is one of 126 professionals nationwide who have earned this designation, and one of only three in South Carolina.
“I wanted to show that I have the initiative to continue pursuing professional development in order to remain current on financial aid policies, regulations and funding options for the benefit of Winthrop,” Hare said.
“Our students and families, along with Winthrop staff and faculty, can be assured that Winthrop’s financial aid is administered ethically and effectively,” she continued.
The certification demonstrates that Hare has “shown industry-related experience, successfully passed a comprehensive knowledge exam and affirmed commitment to the standards for ethical behavior that have long been a hallmark of the financial aid profession,” according to the CFAA news release.
“Michelle’s certification is not only deserved, but additional validation of her commitment and service to students, families and the Winthrop community at large,” said Eduardo Prieto, vice president for access and enrollment management. “This recognition is no surprise to me and to those who know her as she is representative of the top-level professional, dedicated staff and faculty at Winthrop. Simply put, Michelle is one of the best in the financial aid profession, and we are fortunate she is one of ours.”
The CFAA certification process produces candidates with sufficient breadth of knowledge to benefit their employers, their colleagues and the students and families seeking assistance. In general, credentials like the CFAA benefit individuals by providing a roadmap for professional development, enhancing job performance and broadening career opportunities. Employing CFAA credential holders helps ensure Title IV aid is being administered ethically and effectively, which supports every participating institution’s commitment to administrative capability made to the U.S. Department of Education in the school’s Program Participation Agreement.
More information about the CFAA program may be found at www.nasfaa.org/CFAA, or by contacting NASFAA’s CFAA program staff via e-mail at credential@nasfaa.org.
