By By Lori Dugan/EAC
THATCHER, Ariz. —Eastern Arizona College’s (EAC) Director of Financial Aid and Veteran Services, Sharon Montoya, has earned the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (FAAC®) designation from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA). This certification affirms her expertise in administering Title IV federal student aid programs and highlights her dedication to the field.
Montoya’s career with EAC began in 1996 as a Financial Aid assistant. She progressed through the department, officially serving as Financial Aid Director in 2009 after stepping into the role unofficially in 2007. Montoya briefly left the college at the end of 2012 to work from home and raise her third child, Rhett, but returned in 2019 to resume her leadership position when her successor retired.
Dr. Susan Wood, EAC’s vice president of academic and student affairs, applauded Montoya’s accomplishment and its significance to the college. “This certification is a testament to Sharon’s expertise, professionalism, and dedication to serving our students,” Wood said. “It demonstrates her deep understanding of the financial aid process and her commitment to excellence in higher education. Certifications like this inspire trust—not only among our students and their families but also within the college community as a whole.”
Wood added, “Sharon’s achievement reflects her drive for continuous improvement and the College’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional support to our students. We couldn’t be prouder of her.”
The FAAC® certification is a significant professional milestone in financial aid administration. Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility criteria, including passing a comprehensive exam covering 12 key areas of financial aid competency, adhering to a code of ethics, and fulfilling work experience and education requirements. Certification holders must maintain their designation through ongoing professional development, reflecting their commitment to continuous learning and excellence in the field.
Montoya’s certification exemplifies EAC’s commitment to providing high-quality service to its students and underscores the institution’s dedication to ethical and knowledgeable financial aid administration.
Registration is going on now for the Spring 2025 semester. For more information or to register, visit www.eac.edu.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates and two bachelor’s degrees, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. At EAC, students can live in on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt. Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, visit www.eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
