Dina Birmingham

College Finance Consultant She/Her/Hers

College Finance Consultant

Assistant Director of Financial Aid Willamette University

Account Executive Northwest Education Loan Association

Financial Aid Coordinator Portland State University

Financial Aid Counselor Portland Community College

My Background

I joined the College Coach Education Finance Team after years of helping students and families navigate the financial aid process. Following graduation from the University of Oregon, I began working in financial aid with a focus on helping students overcome financial barriers that can impact college access and completion. I worked at Portland State University, where I helped develop partnerships with regional community colleges and supported dual-enrollment pathways for students pursuing four-year degree programs. As Assistant Director of Financial Aid at Willamette University, I managed financial literacy and loan programs and developed a passion for working directly with students and families. Later, I served as a Financial Aid Counselor at Portland Community College and as an Account Executive and Financial Literacy Trainer with the Northwest Education Loan Association, providing workshops and training to college students throughout the Northwest. After operating a small business for several years, I returned to financial aid in 2023 and joined College Coach full time in 2025. I also host the podcast Getting In: A College Coach Conversation.

The quality of essays was dramatically improved

Why I Joined College Coach

I started part time with College Coach while also working on contract for Lewis & Clark College. I enjoyed the personalized, one-on-one advising model and the opportunity to provide meaningful guidance to students and families. Those experiences led me to join the College Coach Education Finance Team full time in 2025.

Get to Know Me

My Education

University of Oregon Bachelor's Degree

Some of my favorite pastimes

In my free time I enjoy hiking and travel, particularly if either include a stop at a coffee shop for fuel.

Interested?

Interested in learning more about how our college admissions counseling services can help your student succeed?

Call 877-402-6224 or complete the form for information on getting your student started with one of our experts.