The Student Account Specialist is a student-centered and student-facing role at Lawrence University. This position continually works with other roles and departments on campus to efficiently and accurately steward the billing and payment aspects of the student experience. As part of a “one stop shop” student services center that includes the Financial Aid and Registrar’s Offices, the Student Account Specialist will continually strive for equitable policies, procedures and solutions related to student accounts to help students be successful and stay on track to graduation.
Responsibilities:
Process student account transactions
Responsible for the operation of student accounting processes in the Ellucian Banner software to include: billings, deposits, scholarships, finance charges, holds, payment plans, refunds, electronic data transfers to and from 3rd parties and other departments.
Cross-train on the essential tasks of the Lawrence University Cashier position as it relates to updating student accounts for payments and serve as a backup to the Cashier when needed.
Maintain accuracy of the student account ledger
Investigate and resolve billing concerns identified with internal audit procedures when necessary.
Process student status changes for student leaves and withdrawals
Coordinate room and board charges with Bon Appetit and Student Life to ensure correct charges/credits are made to accounts.
Work with Admissions and International Student Services to ensure accurate billing for international exchange students and scholars.
Work with Off-Campus Programs to ensure accurate charges/refunds for study abroad programs.
Provide excellent customer service
Communicate professionally and effectively with a diverse student body, their families, alumni, staff and faculty, and third parties.
Create and publish monthly student statements through Transact, and monitor monthly payment plans in Transact.
Answer inquiries and resolve concerns regarding student account issues. Assist students and families to understand student account charges and payment options.
Collaborate regularly with offices such as Financial Aid, Registrar, Bon Appetit and Student Life to make Student Information System operations as seamless as possible for students.
Identify and recommend improvements to policies and procedures related to student accounts that could improve clarity, efficiency, equity, and/or reduce obstacles to student retention, persistence, and progress toward graduation.
Maintain compliance with federal, state and institutional policies
Compile data and produce the IRS Form 1098-T (Tuition Statement).
Send federal loan notification letters as required under Title IV Regulations.
Work closely with University Accounting Services, Inc. (UAS) to ensure timely and accurate administration of the Federal Perkins Loan Program including student exit requirements, loan repayment, loan payoff, delinquent loan collections, loan consolidations, and other federal compliance requirements.
Contact and initiate the collection of student account balances according to terms of the student account and in escalated or special situations.
Perform accounting tasks
Reconcile general ledger accounts related to student accounts.
Working Relationships:
Will work collaboratively with all members of Financial Services, Financial Aid, Registrar, Student life, some faculty and other members of the diverse Lawrence community, including students, parents, alumni, collection agencies, and loan service providers.
Knowledge and Skills Required:
Ability to effectively and professionally communicate orally and in writing with diverse populations.
Ability to organize work flow, balance multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
Ability to maintain a high degree of accuracy with paper and electronically imaged files.
Strong analytical skills with outstanding attention to detail.
Equity-minded, problem-solving approach.
Ability to work both independently utilizing various resources and in a team environment
Ability to maintain confidentiality of information with strong integrity and ethics.
Knowledge of basic accounting for accounts receivables.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Associates Degree in related field or substantial experience in a similar position
At least one year accounting or related experience; 3+ years preferred.
Possess proficient computer skills.
Employment Requirements: Must have successful completion of criminal record check, credit history check, and reference checks.
We encourage applications from individuals who will help us create a more inclusive Lawrence by: (1) further diversifying the staff; and/or (2) demonstrating experience serving diverse populations and working successfully with diverse colleagues; and (3) showing interest in developing initiatives to address the needs of a diverse student body.
Lawrence University of Wisconsin, through its undergraduate residential college and Conservatory of Music, educates students in the liberal arts and sciences. The university is devoted to excellence and integrity in all of its activities and committed to the development of intellect and talent, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, the cultivation of sound judgment, and respect for the perspectives of others. Lawrence prepares students for lives of achievement, responsible and meaningful citizenship, lifelong learning, and personal fulfillment. As a diverse learning community of scholars and artists, we actively foster a transformative process that emphasizes engaged learning, supported by an environment of rich educational opportunities in a residential campus setting.
