FAS ‘Well Worth the Investment’ for Peru State College

Challenge:

Founded in 1865 by members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Peru State College is the first and oldest institution in Nebraska. With 2,100 students, the four-year public college, located one hour’s drive from Omaha or Lincoln, offers undergraduate, graduate and online degrees. In September 2017, when newly appointed Financial Aid Director Mason White arrived at Peru State College, he turned to FAS to help get operations back on track, train staff and address compliance issues.

 Solution:

“The financial aid office was short staffed, had two financial aid ‘newbies’ and was  behind in processing, verification, awarding and disbursements,” said White. “My previous institution had worked with FAS, so I immediately contacted them for assistance.” FAS Consultant Joyce Sonenberg quickly arrived on campus to assess the situation and provide counseling. During her four-month tenure, Sonenberg trained the staff, updated policies and procedures, resolved compliance issues and helped catch up with verification and disbursements.

Results:

“Joyce fit in easily, with her soothing demeanor, positive attitude, depth of knowledge and excellent listening skills,” said White. “She quickly became part of our community and was a wonderful mentor to me as I adjusted to my new role as financial aid director. Our Vice President for Administration and Finance said he thought Joyce was doing a fabulous job and well worth our investment.” He noted that “FAS has a solid reputation for the highest level of professionalism and provides a wide variety of offerings. “I would highly recommend them for any institution needing assistance,” he said.