After more than 32 years serving Washington State University and supporting generations of Cougs, Joy Scourey, assistant vice provost for Student Financial Services, has announced her intention to retire in 2027. Scourey will continue leading Student Financial Services into the fall before transitioning into an advisory role supporting Enrollment Management and Student Financial Services.
A WSU alumna, Scourey began her career at the university in 1994, serving in a variety of leadership and administrative roles. She became assistant vice provost in 2021 and has since guided the unit through significant operational, regulatory, and organizational changes while maintaining a steadfast commitment to student access and success. Throughout her career, Scourey has provided leadership in financial aid administration, scholarship management, enrollment management, fiscal operations, and student success initiatives, helping ensure students across the WSU system receive the support they need to achieve their educational goals.
Among her many accomplishments, Scourey oversaw the administration of more than $52 million in federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing critical support to students facing financial hardship. She also successfully led WSU through the complex implementation of federal FAFSA simplification changes and other evolving financial aid regulations, ensuring compliance while minimizing disruptions to students. Under her leadership, Student Financial Services improved operational efficiency, strengthened scholarship administration, advanced affordability and completion initiatives, and developed stronger partnerships across campuses and enrollment management units. Her collaborative approach helped align financial aid and scholarship strategies with broader institutional priorities while fostering a culture of service, innovation, and accountability.
“Joy’s impact on WSU cannot be overstated,” said Saichi Oba, vice provost for enrollment management. “For more than three decades, she has been a trusted leader, a dedicated advocate for students, and a valued partner to colleagues across the university system. Her leadership through periods of significant change, particularly in financial aid and enrollment management, has helped thousands of students access and complete their education. We are deeply grateful for her service and the lasting legacy she leaves at WSU.”
Effective Oct. 1, Scourey will transition into a senior advisor role, providing leadership transition support, strategic consultation, and institutional knowledge transfer. To ensure continuity during this transition, Myla Walter, senior associate director of Student Financial Services, will serve as interim assistant vice provost as the Provost’s Office launches a national search this fall for the permanent position.
