Assistant Vice Provost for Financial Initiatives & Chief Financial Aid Administrator
Dr. Kerline Eglaus began serving as Assistant Vice Provost for Financial Initiatives & Chief Financial Aid Administrator in January 2025, bringing in nearly two decades of transformative leadership and a relentless dedication to advancing student success through financial aid and financial wellness. Her career has been defined by a deep passion for dismantling barriers and creating pathways for students to access higher education and achieve their dreams unapologetically.
As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Eglaus intimately understands the life-changing power of education, a personal journey that inspires and informs her professional mission. She holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi, equipping her with the expertise and vision to lead boldly and innovatively in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. As a Certified Financial Aid Administrator (FAAC®) and member in the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), she leverages her national network and knowledge to drive forward-thinking solutions for students and institutions alike.
Dr. Eglaus’ leadership has left an indelible mark on every institution she has served. As Executive Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships at Metropolitan State University of Denver, she spearheaded financial aid and scholarship strategies that resulted in significant increases in enrollment, the number of students receiving aid, and total aid disbursements, all while fostering equity and access for underrepresented populations. At Lone Star College Systems, she collaborated and managed financial aid programs supporting 85,000 students with over $300 million in federal, state, and scholarship funds, ensuring operational excellence and student-centered service delivery across eight campuses and five centers.
Dr. Eglaus’ work is rooted in a commitment to access, equity, and innovation. She has a proven track record of facilitating enrollment growth, enhancing financial wellness, and transforming the student experience through inclusive and compassionate leadership. Her efforts are not just about numbers but about people: helping students dream boldly, overcome challenges, and build futures filled with possibility for current and future students. She believes in fostering collaboration, empowering teams, and implementing bold strategies that enhance the Volunteer experience and align with the mission of Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university.
“Education has the power to transform lives, breaking down barriers and building bridges through opportunity, equity, and compassion. This belief drives everything I do. My work is dedicated to advancing access, championing financial wellness, fostering innovation, and supporting the holistic success of every student. With a strategic vision, inclusive leadership, and a spirit of collaboration, I strive to inspire students to dream fearlessly, excel academically, and unlock their boundless potential. Together, we can create a future where opportunities are limitless, and success knows no bounds.”
Clifton Strengths: Learner, Achiever, Relator, Intellection, Belief.