Craig Slaughter named executive director of financial aid

Wake Forest has named Craig Slaughter executive director of financial aid. 

Slaughter, who has served as the associate vice president for enrollment and director of financial aid at Kenyon College since 2017, will provide comprehensive leadership of Wake Forest’s financial aid program. He will begin January 27.

With nearly 30 years of experience in financial aid and enrollment management, Slaughter has previously held positions as director of financial aid at DePauw University, the University of Redlands and Indiana University School of Music. He currently serves as past chair of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators’ Certified Financial Aid Administrator Program.

“Craig contributes a depth of experience administering financial aid and navigating the complex challenges of today’s professional landscape,” said Vice President for Enrollment Eric Maguire. “He is a key contributor to the profession, serving in prominent roles in national organizations and brings a student-centric approach, a knack for data systems, and (as a lifelong musician) an octave range that far exceeds the expectations for the position. He will be a great contributor to our efforts to improve access and affordability.”

A long-time member of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Chorus, Slaughter earned a bachelor of music degree in vocal performance from the Eastman School of Music and a master of science in student affairs administration from Indiana University.

“I am eager to join the Wake Forest community, where I’ve observed a genuine warmth and spirit of collegiality among its members,” Slaughter said. “I am also inspired by the University’s commitment to its motto, Pro Humanitate, and look forward to contributing to its mission of fostering a vibrant, inclusive and equitable learning environment.”

As executive director, he will ensure that students, campus and community stakeholders have access to and are aware of financial resources and will provide expert guidance on state and federal laws and regulations related to financial aid administration.

“In this role, I am excited to work collaboratively with the talented Financial Aid team and the University community to advance access and affordability for all students,” Slaughter said. “Embracing Wake Forest’s vision of addressing humanity’s challenges through bold thinking and purposeful action, I will help ensure financial aid serves as a powerful tool in creating a diverse and dynamic student body.”

Wake Forest conducted a national search to fill the position in partnership with executive search firm WittKieffer.