Some people improve a place with their presence alone. Texarkana College financial aid specialist Tiffany Pumphrey is one of those people. Though she only began her job at TC in 2022, she works and speaks about her work as if she were born to help students pursue higher education.

“There is not a greater feeling than working personally with students to help them overcome financial obstacles that may hold them back from taking the next step in their career,” Tiffany said. “I absolutely love what I do: helping students navigate and understand how financial aid works, unlocking doors to educated success, helping them turn stress into success. I’m committed to breaking down financial barriers for students of all backgrounds.”

In her position, Tiffany utilizes a diverse array of skills to help students. In accordance with Department of Education regulations and guidelines, she reviews financial documents, evaluates and processes aid applications, and calculates awards. In addition, she assists students in completing FAFSA applications and helps with financial aid-related outreach. The job requires meticulous organizational skills, which Tiffany has developed over three decades of her career.

“You can’t waste your time wondering if you measure up to the person next to you.”

— Tiffany Pumphrey

Tiffany, after earning her own degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1995, returned to her hometown of Texarkana and worked for a pharmaceutical distributor for 20 years. In 2016, she was hired by TISD as a receptionist at Paul Laurence Dunbar Early Education Center. Three short years later, she was promoted to the role of staff development specialist, working alongside the executive director of curriculum and instruction. In 2022, she was named the district-wide Paraprofessional of the Year—an award she considers one of her greatest career accomplishments, along with being recognized as a “woman to watch” by the Northeast Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (NETBASE).

Approaching her two-year employment anniversary at Texarkana College, Tiffany has already made lasting, gratifying relationships with her colleagues, as well as with the students she serves. “I absolutely love being a part of my TC family and working with a great team that allows students to have a positive college experience,” she said. “[I feel so proud when] a student stops by the financial aid office to personally thank me for my assistance in helping them find aid for school and achieving their academic goals.”

Tiffany and her husband, Kenneth, are members of Hickory Hill Baptist Church in Nash. They have two adult children: Chloe Griffin (23) and Evan Pumphrey (28).
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An experienced professional, Tiffany knows that there is more to life than work—though resisting the call of workaholism has not always been easy. “I’ve had to choose to prioritize my well-being and personal growth,” she reflected. “The path that I have chosen—to prioritize my emotional, mental, and physical health—is not always easy, and I must remind myself daily that I’m capable of overcoming anything that comes my way.”

For other professional women, Tiffany has profound yet simple advice to offer: “You can’t waste your time wondering if you measure up to the person next to you,” she said. “Focus on what you bring to the table.”

FSLM ASKED TIFFANY…

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A neonatal nurse. I love babies.

What are your favorite local spots to spend time? I love Mexican dishes, seafood, pizza, and burgers! My hangout spots are Tamollys, Mighty Crab, TLC Burgers, and Underground Pizza.

Name a woman who inspires you. My daughter, Chloe. This kid is absolutely amazing! She received her master’s degree at 23 years old.

Each woman featured in this issue was chosen by an honoree from last year’s Tribute to Women to be recognized for their extraordinary contributions to the Texarkana community.

Taylor Richards’ Words:

While Tiffany and I have not known each other long, she has left a mark for the better. It’s obvious to those around her that she works to make each day better than the last. She is a positive voice on the days that feel overwhelming and a steady hand for those who need a friend. Working with Tiffany is a blessing that I’ve grown to cherish. Even on the days that I may not get to speak with her, she’s always sure to give me a smile across the hallway. Tiffany Pumphrey embodies the essence of dedication and compassion. She tackles every challenge with diligence and determination. Once she sets her mind to something, there is no stopping her. Yet, it’s her compassion and generosity for others that truly set her apart. She’s always there to lend a helping hand, volunteer her time, and ensure the success of others. I cherish my friendship with her, and I know she deserves the honor of being highlighted within our community.

Feature Stories

Tribute to Women: Tiffany Pumphrey