Remembering Bill Schilling

The financial aid community lost a pioneer, student advocate, and mentor earlier this month. William “Bill” Schilling, former director of student financial aid at the University of Pennsylvania, died at home following a brief battle with cancer.

Bill dedicated his professional career to opening doors for students from all backgrounds to higher education. He partnered with the College Board on many important initiatives and provided keen insights and sage advice on critical financial aid issues. A few notable experiences, that span decades of collaboration, include his membership on the Task Force on College Access for Students from Low-Income Backgrounds, the Higher Education Act Reauthorization Committee, the Financial Aid Standards and Services Advisory Committee, the CSS Financial Assistance Assembly Council, and the Board of Trustees.

Bill’s genuine love of the financial aid field and those who work within it was felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He was a gentleman and scholar who made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of students and colleagues. We send our heartfelt condolences to Bill’s family and friends.