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SASFAA Community Engagement Leadership Pipeline
2025-26 Participants
Assistant Director of Client Services, Virginia Tech I’m the Assistant Director of Client Services in the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid at Virginia Tech, where I’ve been helping students navigate their financial journey since 2019. But my Hokie roots run much deeper, I earned my undergrad, master’s, and Ph.D. right here at VT.Before stepping into the world of financial aid, I spent 14 years in the VT Athletic Department as a strength and conditioning coach, working closely with student-athletes to help them reach their full potential. That experience shaped my passion for service and student support, which continues to drive me every day. Whether it’s in the gym or the office, I’m am passionate about making a difference and giving back to the university that’s given me so much. |
Director of Financial Aid & Veteran Affairs, University of South Carolina-Sumter With 21 years of experience spanning K-12 and Higher Education, Jernitha Shanta Smith is the dedicated Director of Financial Aid & Veteran Affairs at USC Sumter. Jernitha is a specialist in all facets of financial aid, including Processing, Regulations, Compliance, and Awareness. She is directly responsible for leading and educating her team, driving operational efficiency through the implementation of progressive systems, software, and mass communication procedures. She maintains her expertise through active membership in SCASFAA, SASFAA, and NASFAA, and is a dedicated 25-year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. A powerful and positive presence in the workplace, Jernitha uses her tireless energy and encouraging attitude to foster success among her colleagues. Jernitha is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Administration at the University of South Carolina. She holds a master’s in education from Lesley University and a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College of South Carolina. When she isn't working, Jernitha loves to travel and watch "True Crime & Crime Fiction" shows, drawing daily inspiration from her daughters, Kennedi and Kori. |
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| Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid, University of West Georgia My name is DeNitra Ukpo. I’m originally from Florida but have called Georgia home for the past 10 years. I began my career in financial aid in 2003 at Kaplan University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I moved to Georgia to continue my journey at a public institution, first at Chattahoochee Technical College and now at the University of West Georgia, where I currently serve as the Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid. I grew up watching my parents dedicate their lives to serving the community, and their example continues to inspire me. In my own career, I remain committed to creating a legacy of service by helping students and families access the resources they need to pursue their educational goals. |
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