Closing a crucial gap, Joseph McKee of Greenville, Miss., has been charged to lead Coahoma's Office of Financial Aid. Accompanied by a Bachelor of Business Administration in computer information systems and a Master of Business Administration from Delta State University, McKee seeks to continue a standard of professionalism within the office.
"First, I must offer a token of appreciation to our president, Dr. Valmadge T. Towner, for affording me the opportunity to serve in this leadership capacity," McKee detailed.
"Secondly, I want to thank the Director of Student Engagement, Mrs. Karen Done, for welcoming me to the division. Sometimes, we want leadership roles, but are we truly ready for them? Without any sense of arrogance or cockiness, I feel that now is time for me to assume this leadership role. The institution is embarking on the next phase of its existence, and I am excited to be part of the mission."
Carrying a colorful resume, he believes being a team member remains the most beneficial aspect of his work in the office setting. McKee says that minor piece of serving in various other roles was immensely critical to accomplishing outcomes.
"Coming over to the Office of Financial Aid provides me with another opportunity to become part of a team. The only difference is that this opportunity is from the leader's view," he added. "We want to always be effective and efficient in providing financial aid-related services and opportunities.
As its director, McKee aims to build on the solid foundation and exceptional work already taking place within the essential department while also ensuring a holistic approach to financial aid services, whether it be assisting with FAFSA completion (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or providing both students and parents with educational resources designed to guide them toward making careful financial decisions impacting financial aid eligibility and access.
Falling in line with campus administrators, he hopes to foster and deepen relationships with stakeholders servicing the institution's five-county service area. McKee is highly confident in Financial Aid personnel's efforts in giving way to success in Coahoma Community College's student body.
"We have an office staffed with experts committed to helping our current and prospective students," said McKee.
Student Engagement Director Karen Woods-Done, under whom Financial Aid is housed, sees McKee as a leader well-qualified for the position.
Woods-Done said of the recent hiring decision, "Mr. McKee is and continues to be a phenomenal resource to the College. Mr. McKee brings excellent leadership skills, a desire to ensure that the College is competitive in all areas, and he has a unique skill set that allows him to connect with students from all walks of life. In my opinion, I think this will ensure that the Office of Financial Aid is able to assist students in the manner in which our students have been accustomed."
McKee is the husband of the former Evelyn Bland and father to two sons, Tavaris and Akeelein, and four daughters, A’Kaychia, Teya, Jessica, and Joselyn. He is a proud member of the Epsilon Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
Request information or assistance by contacting the Office of Financial Aid at (662) 621-4200.