Jana Cox

University of Tennessee - Chattanooga

Statement of Candidacy

I am honored to be nominated for the TASFAA 2025-2026 President Elect.

When I moved to West Tennessee in 2021 and I knew immediately I wanted to get involved with TASFAA. Being able to make an impact and help others over the last 24 years in the world of financial aid is truly rewarding.

2022 was my first year working with TASFAA and it was a rewarding experience. During that time, along with some amazing professionals, I had the opportunity to organized the Middle Management pre-workshop. The following year I had the opportunity to serve as the 2024 conference co-chair and I have continued that role for the 2025 conference

Prior to moving to Tennessee, I served on the California Community College Student Financial Aid Administrator Association (CCCSFAAA), as the regional representative for 3 terms and was then elected the incoming president for the 2020-2021 term. During my time on the CCCSFAAA board, I served on the conference committee, the federal relations committee, and served as the CCCSFAAA rep with CSAC. Additionally, I had many opportunities to present to the California Board of Governors on various financial aid issues within the state. I have presented at NASFAA, CCCSFAAA, TASFAA, and at College Board Colloquium.

I am currently serving in the role of Director of Financial aid and Scholarships at UT Chattanooga, where I lead an amazing team. I oversee the awarding of financial aid for institutional, state, and federal funding. Additionally, I have a seat at the table to ensure the university stays compliant with the ever-changing regulation in financial aid. My favorite part of working in financial aid is being able to make a difference in a student’s life and helping them reach their goals.

I appreciate the opportunity to be considered for President Elect.

Work Experience

Professional Involvement

TASFAA

Conference Co-Chair, 2024-25

4-Year Public Sector Rep, 2024-25

Conference Co-Chair, 2023-24

Conference Committee, 2022-23

SASFAA

New Aid Officer Workshop Instructor, 2024

New Aid Officer Workshop Instructor, 2025

CCCSFAAA

Incoming President, 2020-2021

Regional Rep, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20

Conference Committee Member, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20

Federal Relations Committee, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20

New Director Instructor Trainer, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20

CSS/Financial Assistance Assembly (College Board)-

Board Member, 2017-2020

Work Experience

Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships, University of Tennessee, Chattanooga August 2024-present

Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships, University of Tennessee, Martin, January 2021-July 2024

Director of Student Financial Services. Santa Rosa Junior College, July 2015-December 2020

Consultant, Evans Consulting, July 2011-June 2015

District Director of Financial Aid, West Hills Community College District, June 2005-June 2011

Financial Aid Coordinator, West Hills Community College District, June 2004-May 2005

Financial Aid Assistant, Chapman University, June 2002-June 2004

Education

Master of Science in Human Resources, Chapman University, May, 2007

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, Chapman University, May, 2005

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