By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) shines the spotlight on Mr. Brent Marshall, Director of Student Finance, for his contributions over 14 years of service. With a clear focus on improving student experiences and ensuring financial stability, Mr. Marshall embodies the university’s commitment to its motto, “Beyond Excellence.”
A Leader in Student Finance
Armed with an MBA from the University of the Southern Caribbean, Mr. Marshall has meticulously managed the complexities of the Student Finance Department. His role encompasses overseeing the registration process, ensuring timely collections of student receivables, and managing student accounts with precision. His leadership extends beyond the campus gates, liaising with governmental agencies and private entities to secure scholarships and educational assistance for students.
Pioneering Initiatives and Remarkable Achievements
Under Mr. Marshall’s guidance, the Student Finance Department has achieved numerous milestones:
- Streamlining registration: Simplified and automated processes have reduced wait times and eased the registration experience for students.
- Reducing student receivables: A $3 million reduction in student receivables in the 2023-2024 financial year speaks to his strategic debt collection efforts and focus on accountability.
- Automation and accessibility: Introducing automated student receipt submissions and enabling debit/credit card payments have made transactions seamless and accessible for students.
- GATE efficiency: Through improved relationships with the GATE office, outstanding claims have reduced by 90%, achieving quicker turnaround times for payments.
These efforts have earned him well-deserved accolades, including the President’s Award for Excellence (2021) and the School of Social Sciences Award for Outstanding Stewardship (2023).
Transforming Student Experiences
Mr. Marshall’s student-first approach is evident in his initiatives aimed at enhancing campus life. By offering remote payment options and improving the student management system, he has enabled students to complete critical financial processes from the comfort of their homes. These adjustments have enhanced the registration process and added convenience to the USC community.
A Guiding Philosophy
Mr. Marshall’s professional principles reflect his commitment to excellence:
- Focus on Service: Ensuring that the needs of students and stakeholders are prioritized.
- Seek Excellence: Striving for continual improvement through reviews and innovation.
- Accountability: Emphasizing responsibility in every aspect of his role.
- Teamwork: Collaborating across departments to achieve common goals.
A Legacy of Excellence
Over the years, Mr. Marshall has managed to reduce turnaround times for financial services, improve the accuracy of student accounts, and foster a culture of collaboration within the Student Finance Department. His impact extends beyond numbers, transforming the way USC serves its students and ensuring their academic journeys are supported with efficiency and care..
As USC highlights Mr. Brent Marshall’s contributions, his commitment to service and innovation continues to inspire the entire community. With a focus on leadership, empathy, and accountability, Mr. Marshall truly exemplifies what it means to go “Beyond Excellence.”
