Myrna Perkins, M.S.
Associate Dean of Student Services/Director of Financial Aid
Great Bend, Kansas, United States
Professional Overview
Myrna Perkins is an accomplished higher education leader with over a decade of experience in student services and financial aid administration. As the Associate Dean of Student Services and Director of Financial Aid at Barton County Community College, she oversees a comprehensive suite of programs and services that support student success and ensure access to educational opportunities.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Associate Dean of Student Services and Director of Financial Aid at Barton County Community College, Myrna is responsible for managing all aspects of the institution's student services and financial aid operations. In this dual role, she provides strategic leadership in developing and implementing policies, processes, and initiatives that enhance the student experience and drive improved outcomes.
Under Myrna's guidance, the college has streamlined its financial aid application and disbursement procedures, resulting in a 15% increase in FAFSA completion rates and a 12% improvement in student satisfaction with the financial aid process. She has also spearheaded the expansion of student support services, including the creation of a dedicated career counseling center and the implementation of a comprehensive early alert system to identify and assist at-risk students.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Myrna served as the Director of Financial Aid at a regional state university, where she played a key role in developing and implementing innovative financial aid strategies that helped the institution improve its student retention and graduation rates. She also held various student services positions at a community college, including roles in academic advising, career counseling, and student life.
Throughout her career, Myrna has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success and a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of higher education. She has been recognized for her contributions to the field, receiving the Outstanding Financial Aid Administrator award from the Kansas Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators in 2019.
Academic Background
Myrna holds a Master of Science degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Kansas, where she graduated with honors. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Emporia State University.
Areas of Expertise
- Student services program management
- Financial aid administration and compliance
- Enrollment and retention strategy
- Student success initiatives
- Data analysis and reporting
- Cross-functional team leadership
Professional Impact
Myrna's leadership has had a significant impact on the students and community served by Barton County Community College. Under her guidance, the college has achieved a 20% increase in first-year student retention and a 12% improvement in overall graduation rates. Myrna has also been instrumental in securing over $2.5 million in grant funding to support the expansion of student support services and the development of innovative workforce training programs.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, proven track record of success, and deep commitment to student success, Myrna Perkins is a valuable asset to the higher education community. As she continues to drive meaningful change and impact at Barton County Community College, she remains focused on leveraging her expertise to create transformative opportunities for students and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the field.
