HESAA University Instructor Bios
Sharon Austin, Senior Marketing Manager, Client Services
Sharon is a key staffer who serves in the important role of liaison between HESAA and New Jersey institutions. She has a thorough understanding of HESAA’s mission and services, as well as deep experience in conducting training sessions for high school guidance counselors and financial aid professionals throughout New Jersey.
Jossette Greene, NJ STARS Program Officer
Jossette is responsible for overseeing the NJ STARS Program for county and state colleges. Prior to joining HESAA, Jossette served as the NJ STARS coordinator for Middlesex County College. Jossette earned a bachelor’s in business administration and a master's in project management from DeVry University.
Jean Hathaway, Director of Grants and Scholarships
Jean is currently the Director of Grants & Scholarships at HESAA and is responsible for the verification, awarding and certification of state aid programs and managing the NJFAMS grant system. She has over 25 years of Higher Education experience, beginning her career in financial aid at The Cittone Institute/ Lincoln Technical Institute in 1992. She joined HESAA in January 2016 where she was responsible for the payment unit and small scholarship programs. Prior to joining HESAA, Jean was with Rutgers University’s financial aid office in New Brunswick for 16 years, where she was Assistant Manager of Processing and Student Services. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Rider University.
Lorraine M. Palmer, Associate Director, Student Loan Programs
Lorraine had extensive experience in mortgage underwriting before joining HESAA in 1998. She is currently responsible for oversight of NJCLASS originations and the Special Loans unit. She has been a key player in ongoing efforts to provide NJCLASS borrowers with on-line processes, including eSign. Lorraine holds an associate degree in business management and accounting from Mercer County Community College and a bachelor in liberal studies from Rider University, where she graduated magna cum laude.
Dana Barrett, Program Specialist, Student Loan Programs
Dana Barrett, Associate Director, Student Loan Programs Dana joined HESAA in 2007 as a Program Officer. In 2022, Dana was promoted to Program Specialist and in 2025 to Associate Director of Student Loan Programs. She brings more than 25 years of experience in lending and operations. Dana is committed to supporting the agency’s mission by developing and sustaining strong loan programs that enable New Jersey students to pursue and achieve their educational goals.
Julie Downs, Student Financial Aid Administrator I, Student Loan Programs
Julie Downs, Program Officer, Student Loan Programs Julie joined HESAA in April 2016 as a Student Financial Aid Administrator II. In 2023, Julie was promoted to Student Financial Aid Administrator I, and in October 2025, to Program Officer. Julie has 15+ years of experience in underwriting and customer service. Julie enjoys assisting students with their financial aid needs so they can achieve their higher education goals. Julie has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Stockton University.
Gary Pierre – Louis, Program Officer, Student Loan Programs
Gary joined HESAA in November 2025 as a Program Officer. Gary manages the daily workflows for the NJCLASS team, drawing on his extensive background in lending, underwriting, and customer service. Gary holds an MBA in Human Resource Management from Walden University.
