Volkmer named interim director of scholarships and financial aid

James Volkmer (left) and Craig Munier
James Volkmer (left) and Craig Munier

James Volkmer will begin an interim stint as UNL's Director of Scholarships and Financial Aid later this month, Dean of Enrollment Management Alan Cerveny announced.

Volkmer, who is UNL's assistant dean for business and finance for Academic Services and Enrollment Management, will assume the new role Jan. 12. He replaces Craig Munier, who last month announced his retirement from the university.

Volkmer has indicated he will not be a candidate for the position and has agreed to serve as the chair of the search committee for a permanent director, Cerveny said.

An ASEM assistant dean since 2012, Volkmer brought more than 15 years of corporate finance experience to UNL. He has worked with several industry-leading corporations including Payless ShoeSource, Home Depot and Nike. Prior to joining UNL, Volkmer was the director of finance for Nike Global Marketing and Global Sports Marketing.

"In his interim role, James will benefit from having two talented and experienced associate directors (Kay Dinkelman and Deana Unger) working closely with him," Cerveny said.

Munier has been UNL's director of scholarships and financial aid for 16 years. He has been a strong advocate for the needs of low-income college students at both the state and national level, Cerveny said.

"I've really appreciated Craig's friendship and the leadership he has provided the university," Cerveny said.

The university has begun a national search and expects to have a permanent director named and in place this summer.

— Steve Smith, University Communications