April 30, 2020

Henderson State University has hired Lisa A. Smith as director of financial aid.

Smith is currently interim director of financial aid for the Arkansas Department of Education where she has served as program specialist/outreach coordinator since 2009. She was also manager for student outreach services for the Arkansas Student Loan Authority beginning in 1998.

Smith will start her new job at Henderson May 11.

“We are very excited to welcome Lisa to the Henderson State community,” said Dr. Brad Patterson, vice president of student affairs and student success. “Lisa’s experience with the Arkansas Student Loan Authority and with the Department of Higher Education make her uniquely qualified to be our new director of financial aid.

“Her expertise will be highly beneficial for our students who are seeking the necessary resources for their higher education goals. This is undoubtedly a win for the entire university.”

Smith graduated cum laude from Philander Smith College in 2005 with a B.A. in business. She earned an associate of arts degree from Southern Technical College in 1988.

“Students of today are leaders of tomorrow and I’m honored to have the opportunity to help Henderson students reach their educational goals,” Smith said. “Financial aid serves as a bridge to assist students as they complete their education. My goal at Henderson will be to help students cross that bridge.”