Description

The Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University Invites Applications for Assistant Director, Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)

The Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University seeks an experienced and strategic professional to serve as Assistant Director of the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), the first program of its kind in the journalism industry dedicated to helping alumni reduce the burden of educational debt while pursuing careers that strengthen local journalism.

The Assistant Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the administration, assessment, and continuous improvement of the program. The incumbent oversees financial need assessments, manages day-to-day program operations, develops policies and procedures, and ensures compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.

Working closely with the Director and University leadership, the Assistant Director serves as a key advisor to students, alumni, and stakeholders on complex financial aid matters, debt management strategies, and coordination with federal loan forgiveness programs. The role requires independent judgment, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead data-driven decision-making to support the program's long-term sustainability and impact.

The incumbent represents the University in internal and external forums, collaborates with partners across the institution, and contributes to the strategic growth and visibility of the LRAP program. Travel is required.

This position is contingent upon the continued availability of grant and/or external funding.

Salary Range: $80,000–$85,000 annually

To apply for this position, please visit the following link:

https://opportunities.columbia.edu/jobs/assistant-director-loan-repayment-assistance-program-lrap-new-york-united-states?lApplicationSubSourceID=

About Columbia Journalism School

Columbia Journalism School is committed to educating the next generation of journalists and strengthening journalism's role in society. Through innovative programs and initiatives such as LRAP, the School supports graduates as they pursue meaningful careers that serve communities and advance the public interest.

Columbia University is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran and is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the administration of the LRAP program, ensuring operational excellence, compliance, and alignment with institutional goals.
• Implement and evaluate policies, procedures, and financial aid packaging strategies in collaboration with the Director and University leadership.
• Serve as a primary resource for students, alumni, faculty, and administrators regarding program eligibility, policies, and repayment strategies.
• Provide counseling and guidance on debt management, loan repayment options, and integration with federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Design and deliver presentations, workshops, and outreach initiatives to educate stakeholders and promote program participation.
• Lead data collection, analysis, and reporting efforts to evaluate program effectiveness and support strategic decision-making.
• Develop financial forecasts and statistical models to support funding strategies, spending targets, and long-term sustainability.
• Manage LRAP systems and databases, and identify opportunities for technology enhancements and process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations; and oversee audit preparation and compliance reviews.
• Collaborate with Finance and student services offices to reconcile accounts, manage disbursements, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Represent the University in partnerships with peer institutions, government agencies, and professional organizations.
• Develop and maintain all LRAP communications, publications, policies, procedures, and digital content.
• Lead marketing and outreach efforts to increase awareness, engagement, and participation among eligible alumni.
• Oversee the full lifecycle of application processing, including review, documentation, award notifications, and record maintenance.
• Manage multiple funding streams, and ensure effective allocation of program resources.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and recommend strategies for continuous improvement.
• Advise leadership and stakeholders on program strategy, regulatory changes, risk management, and opportunities for innovation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
   

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and related experience.

Experience

• Minimum of 3–5 years of related professional experience.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, counseling, and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex programs and multiple priorities
• Knowledge of federal, state, and private financial aid regulations and need analysis methodologies
• Experience with student information and financial aid systems, such as PowerFAIDS, Slate, SIS, Access, or similar platforms
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and make informed decisions
• Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends as needed
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• Experience working with adult learners, domestic students, and international students
• Experience in financial aid administration within journalism, graduate, or other professional schools
• Experience with financial forecasting, modeling, program evaluation, or strategic planning
• Experience developing outreach, communications, and engagement strategies