LEXINGTON, Va. Aug. 7, 2024 — Lt. Col. Shannon Eskam, director of financial aid at Virginia Military Institute, has been promoted to assistant superintendent for strategic enrollment management/director of financial aid.

In her new position, Eskam oversees the Office of Admissions, the Office of Financial Aid, Cadet Marketing, and the Retention Center. She is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the execution of the multi-year comprehensive strategic enrollment management plan, and ensuring compliance with Title IV and other relevant state and federal laws and regulations. Serving as a liaison to VMI athletics, she will uphold National Collegiate Athletics Association and Southern Conference rules.  

Eskam began her career at VMI as director of financial aid in September 2022. She came to Lexington from Casper, Wyoming, where she served as the director of financial aid, deputy Title IX coordinator, enrollment services supervisor, and Veterans Affairs certifying official at Casper College. Prior to Casper College, she worked at Gillette College in Gillette, Wyoming, as the assistant director of financial aid services.  

Eskam earned her doctorate degree in higher education administration and a bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyoming. She holds a master’s degree in organizational management from Chadron State College in Chadron, Nebraska.  

Col. John Young, chief of staff, stated that Eskam is well-suited for the critical role.

“Since joining VMI, Lieutenant Colonel Eskam has demonstrated dedication and a commitment to excellence, with an exceptional ability to collaborate. Major General Wins and I are confident that her strategic vision for enrollment management will significantly contribute to the continued success and growth of the Institute.” 

Eskam stated she is honored and excited to accept the position.

“Serving alongside the dedicated individuals at this esteemed institution fills me with pride, and I look forward to further contributing to the growth and success of the Institute and our cadets,” she said.  

Eskam and her husband reside in Lexington with their two school-aged children and three dogs.

- VMI -