This month, we say goodbye to a long-time Thomas College employee and alumni, Jeannine Ross ’03 M.B.A. ’08 as she heads on to a new adventure.
Jeannine Ross, the Executive Director of Student Financial Services, has worked at Thomas College for more than two decades, moving up along the way in student financial aid.
Jeannine, who is a two-time graduate of Thomas College, will be moving on to a new adventure as the Business Manager position with the Augusta School department.
Jeannine Ross has spent her time at Thomas College advocating for and supporting students and their families as they navigate paying for college. She was always learning and improving her knowledge and skills, including in January, when she was named the only registered individual in the State of Maine with the prestigious Financial Aid Administrator Certification (FAAC) currently in the 100+ Club.
Jeannine will be missed for her deep dedication to students, hard work ethic, and contagious laugh. This is what some folks in the Thomas community had to say about her:
“Jeannine is the most genuine and kind-hearted person I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, and she has played a pivotal role in shaping my personal and professional life for the better. The kindness she has shared with her staff, students, and the entire Thomas College community is unmatched, and she will be greatly missed here in the SFS office and across campus. While I am sad to see her leave, I also know that she will do amazing things in this next chapter and wish her all the best for the future.” – Sydney Plourde, Assistant Director of Student Financial Aid
“I worked in SFS as a student at Thomas, where I met Jeannine. I was able to see firsthand how much she cares about the students who walk into her office – from helping students navigate the challenges of financial aid to providing an ear to listen when a student is struggling. As a student I knew Jeannine was in my corner, supporting and cheering me on in good times and bad. I know she is going to do amazing things in her next adventure and the Thomas community is stronger as a result of her time spent there. Thank you for always being a role model and a beacon in the Thomas community, Jeannine!” – Duncan McDougal ’21
“Jeannie has been a wonderful support person for me for the past 17 years that I have had the pleasure of working with her. She is a true believer in the mission of Thomas College and has given so much support and guidance to students and their families. She is fun, easy going and her contagious laugh will be missed by many. I’m thankful for the ‘fun’ we have had together from reconciling accounts, completing NCAA reports or personally completing FAFSA for me. This place won’t quite be the same without you. I wish the best in your next adventure.” – Andrea Thebarge, Associate Director of Athletics
“Jeannine has been a true role model and someone I’ve really looked up to. Her wisdom, support, and steady presence have meant so much to me. She’ll be deeply missed by the Thomas community. She is a true team player and the kind of person who makes everything better just by being there.” -Nicole Smith, Associate Director of Admissions
“Jeannine has worked with countless students to be able to achieve their goals and graduate from Thomas. Her professionalism, compassion, and caring nature help to break down the barriers students and families often feel when discussing finances. Jeannine has not only gone the extra mile to assist students who are struggling, she has walked the journey by their side making herself both approachable and available. Over the past two years, Jeannine has been an integral part of the Thomas Mental Health Team creating initiatives that support student wellness and behavioral health. I’ll miss her presence and sense of humor and wish Jeannine nothing but the best as she embarks on a new adventure.” – Lisa Desautels-Poliquin, Dean of Student Affairs
Congratulations and we’ll miss you, Jeannine!