(COLUMBIA, Tenn. - Feb. 24, 2017) - - - Columbia State Community College is pleased to announce John Cage as the new financial aid director.

"John comes to Columbia State with extensive experience in financial aid in both private and public sectors of higher education," said Jolene Gairrett, Columbia State coordinator of enrollment services processes. "We know that he will promote service, excellence and strive to nurture the success of our students."

Cage will be responsible for promoting a high-quality customer service environment, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations and providing overall leadership and innovation in implementing financial aid policies, procedures and programs.

"As a first-generation college student, I am aware of the challenges that face students as they try to make a college education a reality," Cage said. "In financial aid I have the opportunity to make it possible for people to achieve something that will affect the rest of their lives - that's a rewarding experience."

Cage earned his bachelor's in English literature from Tusculum College and his master's in business administration from King University.

Cage previously worked in financial aid at Tusculum College, Hiwassee College and the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga.

Cage, a Murfreesboro, Tennessee native, currently resides in Spring Hill with his wife.


Photo Caption: John Cage

Columbia State is a two-year college, serving a nine-county area in southern Middle Tennessee with locations in Columbia, Franklin, Lawrenceburg, Lewisburg and Clifton. As Tennessee's first community college, Columbia State is committed to increasing access and enhancing diversity at all five campuses. Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents, one of the largest higher education systems in the nation. For more information, please visit www.ColumbiaState.edu.

Tennessee's Community Colleges is a system of 13 colleges offering a high-quality, affordable, convenient and personal education to prepare students to achieve their educational and career goals in two years or less. We offer associate degree and certificate programs, workforce development programs and transfer pathways to four-year degrees. For more information, please visit us online at tncommunitycolleges.org.

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