Campus News

The Student Advocate will be responsible for analyzing and answering questions (face to face or over the phone) about students’ academic progress, financial aid and accounts as well as preparing/entering financial aid packages. This position is also responsible for processing and maintaining student records, distribution of cash for check cashing and petty cash distribution as well as working with students to set up acceptable payment arrangements.  This position will work with current students in a proactive manner to insure they meet all deadlines for academic and financial related procedures. Other responsibilities include preparing various pieces for mailing/distribution (e.g. financial aid packages, grades, registration materials and account statements/bills).

General Expectations:

• Provide efficient, professional and accurate information in a manner which fosters/supports respect for all members of the Rockford University
• Respond with “sense of urgency” to all customers’ questions and/or concerns
• Maintain/foster positive atmosphere to ensure all “transactions/contacts” are handled with the highest level of customer service
• Knowledgeable/proficient in all standard procedures of registration, student accounts and financial aid
• Knowledgeable about procedures of other departments and contact information to accurately direct customers as needed
• Promote/adhere to goals of increasing retention rates and communicate concerns to appropriate person(s) to ensure this goal
• Represent the Student Administrative Services department on various college committees
• Participate in functions that have a direct link to SAS (e.g. R.O.A.R. and Transfer Registration events).

Principal Activities: 

• Knowledgeable of procedures for contacting students and collection of student accounts with outstanding balances
• Attend various training sessions offered through ELM, ISAC, and ILASFAA.
• Assist students, parents, faculty and staff with questions by providing answers with regards to all services provided by SAS
• Accurately direct students, parents, faculty or staff to appropriate persons for all other campus services
• Process all forms needed for registration such as: registration cards, add/drop, degree declaration(s), and graduation
• Assist students in processing of any financial aid related forms
• Disburse (in accordance to rules/regulations) financial aid advances and cash returns to students with account credits as well as cash student payroll checks
• Enter data/maintaining student accounts/records to ensure all balances are accurate and students receive current information
• Ensure petty cash requests are processed within the approved procedures and disburse when verified/approved.
• Assist in preparing various communications from SAS including financial aid packages, grades, registration, account statements and other mailings as needed
• Responsible for the timely and accurate filing of all forms received from students, faculty or staff
• Apply loan checks and electronic fund transfers to student accounts
• Assume additional duties as assigned by the AVP for SAS

Education:

Bachelor Degree Preferred.

Work Experience:

Prefer a minimum of three years of experience in at least one of these areas: customer service, financial aid or retail sales.

Skills and Certifications:

• Proven customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, multi-task oriented environment.
• Proficient in MS word, MS excel and “data” programs

To apply:

Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, nonexempt opportunity offers an hourly wage of $17.50.

Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way

We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
• Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
• Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.
• Retirement Security: 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future.
• Personal Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs.
• Education Benefits: Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.

At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission.