Our February Team Spotlight features Tracey Richards, who joined College Aid Services in 2024 as a Senior Consultant. Tracey has 20+ years of experience in financial aid and enrollment management.
Tracey started her career at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown before advancing to leadership roles at Montgomery County Community College and Lehigh Carbon Community College. She has been a key player in strategic initiatives, compliance efforts, and system implementations, particularly Ellucian Banner and Colleague. Tracey holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master’s in Leadership Development from Pennsylvania State University.
What do you like most about being a consultant?
What I enjoy most is helping clients, meeting different staff members all over the country, and the flexible work hours. I like to share my knowledge and experience with clients.
What do you enjoy about working for College Aid Services?
College Aid Services is great because of the clients and the team members. My colleagues have a wealth of knowledge and experience that they are always willing to share!
What areas do you specialize in?
I specialize in several areas: Process improvements, Banner functionality – New Year Setup, and Compliance & Federal reporting. In terms of reporting, I have experience with FISAP, FWS Reporting, and some experience with Gainful Employment.
How do you stay up to date with regulations and policy changes?
Staying up to date in the financial aid field is a challenge if you don’t know where to find the information. I stick with NASFAA News, FSA Partner Connect, reviewing Electronic Announcements and Dear Colleague letters, visiting Inside Higher Ed’s website, and participating in regional, national professional organizations.
What challenges do you see on the horizon in Financial Aid?
The coming years are going to be difficult for a lot of reasons. I think that the staff burnout/turnover and the impact of the changing political landscapes are going to have the largest impact moving forward.
What advice would you give to a new Financial Aid officer?
If you’re new to Financial Aid, you should always be networking with other Financial Aid Staff in your state/sector. Take advantage of all professional development opportunities, obtain a NASFAA membership, and find a mentor in the field to provide guidance. If you have the time, you should also volunteer with professional financial aid organizations in your state or region.
What do you like to do outside of your profession?
My two favorite things outside of work are spending time with my nieces and nephews and watching football. I am a huge Philadelphia Eagles fan and have season tickets.
If you are interested in joining Tracey and the rest of our College Aid Services team, review our current openings here. To learn more about how College Aid Services can help your institution, contact us at info@collegeaidservices.net or by phone toll-free at 833-GETCAS1 (833-438-2271).