Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Financial Aid provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all student financial aid programs at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne (CTSFW). This position ensures the faithful stewardship of Seminary resources while supporting students’ access to theological education through the effective administration of federal, institutional, donor-funded, and external scholarships. Serving as a key partner in student formation, the Director upholds the highest standards of regulatory compliance, manages restricted and endowed funds with precision, and advances financial literacy and stewardship among the Seminary community. The Director collaborates closely with Accounting, Advancement, and the Dean of Students to support student success and financial well-being, embodying the Seminary’s mission of forming servants in Jesus Christ who teach the faithful, reach the lost, and care for all. The Director serves as both a resource for students and a partner in the Seminary’s broader mission and financial sustainability, ensuring that financial aid practices reflect sound stewardship and institutional integrity.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a mission-driven and detail-oriented professional who combines technical expertise in financial aid management with a deep sense of vocation and care for students preparing for ministry. They bring exceptional organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills, and can balance regulatory precision with empathy. A strong collaborator, the Director builds trusted partnerships across departments and with donors to steward resources faithfully and ensure equitable student support. They understand the importance of balancing compassion for students with responsibility to the Seminary’s mission, policies, and fiscal health. This individual exemplifies integrity, discernment, and a commitment to serving both students and the Church through the wise administration of financial aid.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administer the full scope of federal and institutional aid programs, ensuring compliance with FERPA, Department of Education (DOE), and accrediting body standards.
• Oversee restricted fund allocations, donor-funded awards, and endowment disbursements to ensure alignment with donor directives and Seminary goals.
• Lead Financial Aid Committee operations, develop and enforce policies, and produce reports for internal and external entities including the DOE and accrediting agencies.
• Provide financial counseling, promote financial literacy initiatives, and collaborate with the Dean of Students to address student emergencies or unique financial needs.
• Partner with Advancement and Accounting to ensure accuracy in gift entry, fund disbursement, and endowment utilization.
• Maintain expertise in federal financial aid regulations, system updates, and reporting tools (NSLDS, COD, and others).
• Work through the President's Office to engage with LCMS districts, congregations, and partner organizations to expand aid opportunities and promote shared stewardship.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or significant financial aid experience preferred.
• Knowledge of federal financial aid systems and compliance (FSA, NSLDS, COD).
• Experience managing significant financial transactions (e.g., managing restricted or endowed funds) preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience with Salesforce or similar platforms preferred.
• Ability to foster positive relationships with students, donors, and institutional partners.
• Demonstrated alignment with the mission and confessional identity of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS).

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strategic Program Leadership: Designs and implements financial aid strategies aligned with institutional and donor goals.
• Regulatory & Donor Compliance: Maintains accuracy and integrity in all aid-related processes.
• Data-Informed Decision Making: Uses data for forecasting, reporting, and compliance tracking.
• Student Advocacy: Guides students through financial decisions with empathy and confidentiality.
• Collaborative Partnership: Builds trust and shared accountability across departments.
• Analytical Thinking and Process Improvement: Evaluates processes to identify opportunities for improvement and increased efficiency.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit or stand at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds as needed.