Madison Reporter

Phil Asbury has been appointed as the executive director of the Office of Student Financial Aid at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, effective December 1. Asbury brings over 30 years of experience in financial aid from various institutions, including Northwestern University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

"We are incredibly grateful to have recruited Phil, a national figure known for his keen acumen, dedication to student access and success, and strategic visioning for innovative aid programs," says Derek Kindle, vice provost for enrollment management.

In his new role, Asbury aims to enhance the socioeconomic diversity of UW–Madison's student body and lead discussions on public higher education access. He will also work to increase awareness of UW–Madison’s promise programs such as Bucky’s Tuition Promise, Bucky’s Pell Pathway, and the Wisconsin Tribal Educational Promise.

Asbury has served as a peer reviewer for the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, visiting approximately 80 institutions to provide advice on improving financial aid delivery. He has also been involved in federal negotiated rulemaking with the U.S. Department of Education and has participated in College Board committees.

"I am thrilled to be joining the University of Wisconsin–Madison as its executive director of financial aid. The university is integral to the lives of families in Wisconsin and is a leader in access, equity and affordability across the state and the nation," says Asbury. "I look forward to joining the team and contributing to the important work of the university."

Asbury holds both a Master of Science in Education and a bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He will report directly to Kindle within the Division of Enrollment Management.

Kindle also expressed gratitude towards Associate Vice Provost Scott Owczarek for serving as interim executive director during a challenging year marked by nationwide issues with FAFSA rollout by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Office of Student Financial Aid at UW–Madison plays a crucial role in providing financial support and guidance to students. The office manages nearly $650 million annually from federal, state, institutional, and private sources. Through their efforts, 66% of undergraduate students graduate without debt, with almost 6,000 students benefiting from promise programs that cover tuition or more.