Meet Jose Cedeno | Contact Center Operational Supervisor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jose Cedeno and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jose, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
With over 15 years in higher education, I can confirm that my passion for service has been the most important factor behind my success. As a former financial aid college advisor, I witnessed first-year college students come into the financial aid office with a severe need for assistance and little to no guidance on paying for college. After gaining an understanding of how federal student aid works, I was able to provide that information to other students like myself who saw education as a way to further their professional aspirations.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In my line of business, I would say what sets me apart from others is that I have seen the entire life cycle of Pell grants and student loans. At one point in my career, I worked within the financial aid office and was the first point of contact for students looking for ways to pay for college. Once I graduated, I earned a position within one of the largest student loan servicers. I learned about different student loans and how to keep them current and in good standing, preventing possible harm to students’ credit scores. Outside of maintaining current accounts, I also learned about the impact of defaulted student loans and how they can cause garnishment of wages and tax returns. As a collections agent, I assisted borrowers with getting back on track through financial disclosure forms and consolidations, opening the door for a fresh start. After seven years of service, I gained a position in middle management. I now develop other team members, advising them to remain empathetic when assisting people needing guidance.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
During my time in Beaufort, I spent much time near the water. So, I would probably have friends come to visit during the water festival.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Two men were instrumental in my maturation and development. One of them was a man by the name of Daren A. Dorm. Mr. Dorm was known in the Pennslyvania area for several Penn State youth programs, like Project Talent Search, before taking his talents to the state of Arizona. The other is named Andrew G. Woods. Mr. Woods, a community regular in the Inwood section of Manhattan, has been the principal of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic School since the 80’s. Last year, OLQM closed after 90 years due to low enrollment and the rise of charter schools. I consider both men pillars in their communities and beacons of what it is to be men of the community, always looking out for others regardless of circumstance.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josecedeno15/