Nicolette (Nicci) Ratcliff
Senior Assistant Director for Federal Work Study & Compliance 
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University  
SASFAA

Nicolette (Nicci) Ratcliff’s interest in developing her professional skill set comes from a passion for leading effectively. In her nine years of work in the financial aid profession, Nicci has continually built upon her expertise, which began following her time at Radford University when she took on her first leadership position at Virginia Tech as part of their processing team.

“Within a short time, I built the trust of my team and became one of our top performers. I fell into an unofficial leadership role among my peers,” Nicci said, adding that the experience helped her move up to an assistant director role within the office. “I would share with our unit any issues I came across during reviews and how I was able to resolve them.”

Nicci says her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the academic world stems from personal experiences.

“I was raised in a biracial family with a Black father and a white mother. We quickly stood out in the town where I grew up for more reasons than our prominent outward appearances,” Nicci said. “It was not always easy growing up in a biracial family. We experienced the hate of racism from multiple races, even our family members. I have heard I was not white or Black enough, and at the time, it hurt. But those experiences have made me want to educate and share with others to help them learn and overcome barriers.”

Nicci currently works as a volunteer member of a committee in her office that organizes events for staff, sends birthday cards to the team, recognizes momentous occasions, and plans their office retreats and holiday parties.

“These activities are essential to staff morale and individual and office performance,” Nicci said.

Learn more about Nicci in the brief Q&A below.

How have you seen diversity in higher education change since you began your career?

Over my last 10 years working in higher education, it has become more intentional in discussions and everyday decisions. There is a push to diversify universities in many aspects and make education more accessible. It has also helped define diversity outside of the race category, while bringing awareness to more than faculty and students. More programs and positions are being created to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into teachings and jobs across campuses. I have seen progress in this area and know we still have a ways to go, but I hope to be a part of that continued advancement.

How did you get your start in financial aid?

I began my career in 2013 after marrying and relocating closer to Radford, Virginia. I found myself in my first financial aid role at Radford University. After almost four years, I felt I needed a change and I started at Virginia Tech in 2017. I began at an entry-level position and was later promoted to supervisor. Truthfully, financial aid was not a job I saw myself in; you kind of fall into it, and it typically goes one of two ways. I am now in my 10^th year and enjoy the challenges it presents daily.

How does your perspective impact how you do your job and approach financial aid?

When I first started in financial aid, I was fresh out of college, in my early twenties, and just looking for a job. My perspective is different now, as I have turned financial aid into a career. I have always taken pride in working hard, being equitable, and being fair, but those terms have more meaning when you enjoy what you do and apply it. I have grown professionally and better understand how to serve our students and families.

I always have in the back of my mind that we deal with two critical things for families: their kids and their money. I use this as a reminder when I am helping families. It is not always an easy job, but it is rewarding knowing that we can contribute to students receiving their education.

What’s a challenge within financial aid that you personally have overcome that you're proud of?

The ever-changing environment that is financial aid. I started in financial aid shortly after I graduated college. The constant changes in regulations, peak seasons, and FAFSA changes were something I had to get used to, in addition to learning the complete cycle of it. Even when starting in different positions in the same field, it feels like you are starting over to learn something new. I am proud of the various roles I have been able to hold thus far. I love learning how the process works together, from client services to processing with verification and ISIRs, scholarships, compliance, and much more.

Any hidden talents?

Not many people know this, but I love to sing and have been told I am good at it. I grew up in the church choir and was a member of the high school ensemble. My dad was a music minister throughout my childhood, which helped influence my singing. We even sang the National Anthem before my basketball games, which is a fun memory.

What's a change in financial aid that you would like to see happen?

I oversee our Federal Work-Study program, and from an administrative perspective, I would love to see some of the restrictions loosened up on how we could use those funds related to work on and off campus.

What do you do when you're not working?

When I am not working or spending time with my husband and son, you will find me working out or training local youth in basketball fundamentals. I am a basketball fanatic who was fortunate enough to play in college. I have a 7-year-old son who has also taken up the sport, and I enjoy watching him develop and improve.