Avena is a veteran higher education leader with three decades of experience in the community college sector and a deep specialization in financial aid administration. She pairs her financial aid expertise with a strong background in information technology, backed by a bachelor’s in IT and an MBA.

Over the years, she has stepped into leadership roles with increasing scope and responsibility—ranging from Financial Aid Evaluator and Technician to Director of Financial Aid, Dean of Financial Aid and Registration Services, and, most recently, Executive Dean of Student Services. She has led cross-functional teams, built and restructured student service departments, driven institutional policy, and overseen multimillion-dollar aid and enrollment operations.

Avena’s consulting work extends her impact beyond a single campus. As a Financial Aid Consultant with the Higher Education Assistance Group, she advises colleges on Title IV compliance, audit findings, program reviews, and process improvements. She’s known for stepping into complex situations, untangling regulatory and operational challenges, and helping institutions move forward with clarity and confidence.

She holds a NASFAA Professional Credential in Administrative Capability and stays actively involved in the association. Her driving goal is simple and unwavering: make financial aid easier to navigate for students and families while holding the line on compliance, integrity, and accountability.