Courtney Thompson-Ballard

• M.A., Counseling, Lenoir-Rhyne University
• B.A., Communication and Media Studies, Lenoir-Rhyne University

Courtney Thompson-Ballard serves as director of financial aid at Lenoir-Rhyne. She assumed her role in January 2019 after serving as interim director since October 2018.

Thompson-Ballard has 20 years of progressive experience at LR, where she has received multiple promotions and continuously increased her leadership responsibilities. As a key member of the enrollment team, Thompson-Ballard leads a variety of initiatives, including the administration of awarding endowments and scholarships, audit preparation and professional development. In her current role, Thompson-Ballard's responsibilities include administration of the Office of Financial Aid, as well as responsible for the leadership and management of administering all financial aid operations, including institutional, state and federal funds.

In 2021, she was recognized and selected to participate in the year-long National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators Diversity Leadership Program. As the long participant selected from the south region, the program provides selectees from marginalized and underrepresented groups with a robust portfolio of benefits, mentorship and guidance on how to develop as a leader at the state, regional and national level.

Thompson-Ballard received the Jeff Norris Staff Employee of the Year Award in 2020. It is designated to honor individuals who make significant contributions to the university's mission, most notably in developing and improving the student experience as it relates to academics, personal and spiritual growth.

Hometown: Anderson, South Carolina

Interesting Fact: I met my husband at LR. He is an alum, along with my sister. LR is a family affair for me.

What I Love About LR: LR has given me the space, opportunity and tools I need to grow both professionally and personally.