AASFAA Spring Conference 2015

AASFAA
Spring Conference 2015
S.O.S.!!!
S.O.S.!!!
SAVING
SAVING OUR STUDENTS
STUDENTS
April 28 – May 1, 2015
The Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference Center
Auburn, AL
Hello AASFAA Family!!
I would like to welcome everyone to the Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference Center for the 2015 Spring Conference. It
has been a few years since we have had a conference in Auburn, but we are thrilled to be back!!
This year’s conference theme is “S.O.S.!! Saving Our Students”. When we first discussed this theme, my first thought
was not only Saving Our Students, but also Saving Our Sanity. In the last couple of years, our financial aid world has
become an ever changing environment. Regulations have changed, students have changed and our institutions have
changed. With these changes, AASFAA continues the tradition of dedication to training for members and education to the
students that we serve.
At each workshop, training and conference, we reunite with good friends and are reminded of old friends and begin
journeys with new friends. These friendships are bonds formed in shared experiences, stories that never die and a
dedication to the financial aid profession that goes beyond the call of duty. AASFAA is a family.
Our Program Committee has done a fabulous job of providing us with an amazing program full of concurrent and general
sessions. THANK YOU to all involved!! We are excited to have Nathan Basford, our SASFAA President, as well as,
Kenneth Cole, SCASFAA President, with us this year. Nathan will be our Thursday morning speaker and later that
afternoon, he will present a very educational and fun session entitled ‘Diversity and Inclusion’. In addition to Nathan,
Kenneth will be presenting a ‘Getting Involved’ session that will help AASFAA to better understand the importance of
being actively engaged in our association and SASFAA. Dr. Tom Cleveland will be our Thursday’s luncheon speaker
and, as I have been told, will recant many hilarious stories of memories from our past. For our Birds of a Feather sessions
will feature Mark Kichline from Ellucian Banner, Michelle Taylor from Ellucian Colleague and Vickie Pridemore and
Jenny Faulk from Alliant. This year once again, we have been blessed to have ‘Our Favorite Fed’, David Bartnicki, in
attendance. Dave is sure to give us the most up to date training on the federal financial aid programs and hopefully, a little
entertainment along the way. The presentations on this year’s agenda are sure to give you valuable information to help
you stay in compliance, provide quality services and ultimately…Save Our Students.
For the first time, AASFAA will be conducting the New Aid Officer Workshop as a pre-conference event. The New Aid
will begin in the afternoon on Tuesday, April 28th, and will include dinner that night with the Executive Board and
Committee Chairs. This year’s New Aid will be taught by Michiale Schneider and Amy Gerber from Great Lakes. We are
looking forward to seeing all of our New Aid Officers at the workshop.
Once again, our Diversity Committee and the Executive Board has agreed to sponsor a charity. AASFAA will collect
donations during the conference to support the non-profit organization, Bo Bikes Bama. Bo Bikes Bama was founded by
Bo Jackson to inspire Alabamians and people across the country to lend their neighbors a helping hand. Money raised by
Bo Bikes goes to support the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund. Many of our friends and family has been effected by
the storms that have destroyed portions of our state in the past few years. This charity provides a response to a S.O.S. in
times of great need.
On a personal note, I want to thank each and every one of you for giving me the honor of serving as your President and
representative on the SASFAA Executive Board. I have been truly blessed during this year, but most of all I am blessed to
be a part of the AASFAA family.
On behalf of the AASFAA Executive Board and Conference Committee, we look forward to seeing each and every one of
you at the Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference Center on the beautiful “Plains” of Auburn.
I look forward to seeing you in Auburn.
Safe travels!!
STEPH
Stephanie Miller
2014-2015 AASFAA President
Dear AASFAA Friends,
I’d like to welcome AASFAA back to Auburn. It’s been a number of years since AASFAA has held its
conference in Auburn, but this year we will return to the beautiful Auburn Hotel and Dixon
Conference Center. We had a great time last year at the Battle House in Mobile, but I’m looking
forward to being at “the loveliest village on the plains”. The Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference
Center is located just beside Auburn University’s campus, and is convenient to many shops,
restaurants and local attractions, such as Toomer’s Corner and their famous lemonade.
Our Program and Conference committees have been working over the past few months with
members from the Department of Education, SASFAA and your AASFAA colleagues to provide a
great conference this year. I’d like to give a special thanks to the members of these committees for
providing such an excellent agenda that includes topics, which will be of interest to attendees from
all institutions and with varying levels of experience.
AASFAA has always provided excellent training to its members at both our fall workshops and
spring conferences. I’m excited to announce that this tradition will continue in Auburn with David
Bartnicki. Dave will be available for a number of sessions, including a Federal Update, a session on
NSLDS Reporting, SAP and a Q & A session Friday morning.
We also have a couple special guests this year, including Dr. Tom Cleveland, Samford University’s
former Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, who, over the course of his career has been very
active in AASFAA, SASFAA and NASFAA. Dr. Cleveland will be our guest speaker at Thursday’s
luncheon. I’m sure we will all enjoy hearing stories from Dr. Cleveland about the early years in the
financial aid world and how things have changed.
Our second guest speaker will be SASFAA’s current president, Nathan Basford. Nathan will be
presenting an excellent session on diversity Thursday afternoon. He will also be our speaker for
Thursday morning’s breakfast. Over the past couple of years, Nathan has been a great
representative for SASFAA and I’m excited to welcome him back to AASFAA’s spring conference.
Please remember to check the AASFAA website for more information about the conference and to
download session materials prior to your arrival. A pocket agenda will be provided when you check
in on-site. The candidates for office are also posted to the AASFAA site, so please review their
biographies and cast your vote.
I’d like to thank you for allowing me to serve as your 2014-2015 President-Elect. I’m excited about
the 2015 conference and hope to see you all there. It will be a great time to learn from our
presenters and colleagues.
Phillip Nelson
2014-2015 AASFAA President-Elect
AASFAA Conference Committee
Phillip Nelson
Ben Baker
Conference Chair
Program Committee Chair
Auburn University Montgomery
University of North Alabama
Betty Edwards
Committee Member
H.C. Trenholm State
Technical College
Jennifer Epperson
Committee Member
Samford University
Stephanie Miller
Committee Member
Jacksonville State University
Paul Mittelhammer
Committee Member
Inceptia
Steve Smith
Committee Member
University of West Alabama
Tammy Spratlin
Committee Member
Southern Union Community College
Joan Waters
Committee Member
Chattahoochee Valley
Community College
The Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference Center
AASFAA Receptions & Meals
SPRING CONFERENCE MENU
SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Buffet style
Tuesday:
New Aid Officer Workshop Attendees & Executive Board Dinner:
Fresh Garden Salad with Diced Tomatoes, Sliced Cucumbers, Julienne Carrots,
Crispy Bacon Bits and Shredded Cheese, Ranch Dressing, Balsamic
Vinaigrette, Chicken Fingers and Barbeque Boston Pork Butt, Herbed Mashed
Potatoes, Fried Green Tomatoes, Corn Bread, Rolls, Pecan Pie, Tiramisu,
Coffee, Sweet Tea and Water
Wednesday:
Lunch: Potato Salad with Leaf Parsley, Marinated Grilled Vegetables, Smoked Turkey
Breast, Country Ham, Roast Beef and Salami, Cheddar, Swiss and Provolone
Cheese, Roasted Chicken Celery Salad. Kaiser Rolls, Wheat Bread,
Condiments, Sliced Tomatoes, Red Onion Lettuce and Dill Pickles, Assorted Deli
Style Chips, Brownies, Sugar Cookies, Coffee , Sweet Tea and Water
Dinner: Crisp Romaine with Herb Croutons, Parmesan Cheese, Olives, Caesar
Dressing, Ranch Dressing, Spaghetti Bolognese, Cheese Ravioli au Gratin,
Roma Tomato Sauce, Fresh Baked Garlic Bread, Italian Cannoli and
Cheesecake, Coffee, Sweet Tea and Water
Thursday:
Breakfast: Sliced Season Fruits, Croissants, Muffins, Danish, Fruit Preserves, Butter,
Scrambled Eggs, Biscuits, Bacon, Orange Juice, Apple Juice, Coffee, Tea and Milk.
Lunch: Mixed Greens with Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Croutons, Ranch Dressing, Italian
Dressing, Grilled Chicken, Rice Pilaf, Steamed Broccoli & Carrots, Rolls with
Butter, Bread Pudding with Caramel Drizzle, Coffee, Tea and Water
President’s Reception: Drink ticket will be provided at the door.
Dinner: Mixed Green Salad with Poached Pears, Spiced Walnuts and White Cheddar
Balsamic Vinaigrette, Carved Beef Tenderloin, Béarnaise Sauce, Baked Tilapia
with Lemon Butter Sauce, white Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus with
Lemon-Butter Sauce, Rolls with Butter, Apple Pie, Coffee, Tea and Water
Friday:
NEW
Breakfast: A Breakfast Voucher will be given to each Friday Conference attendee upon
Conference Registration check-in. The voucher will be for the full buffet breakfast,
including beverage and tip, in Ariccia, the hotel restaurant. Attendees may go to the
restaurant between 6:30 am and 8:30 am for breakfast. The Fed Q & A will be held in
Ballroom A at 8:45 am.
CONFERENCE CHARITY
Bo Bikes Bama
AASFAA will collect donations during the conference to support Bo Bikes Bama.
It all starts with a Legend
Five hundred miles away from his home state, Bo Jackson watched in shock as a series of devastating
tornadoes ripped through Alabama on April 27, 2011, claiming hundreds of lives and destroying countless
homes. While many sat powerless to help, Bo knew he wanted to do something special for the people back
home—and that’s where the Bo Bikes Bama story began.
On the first anniversary of the storms, Bo embarked on a five-day journey across the state of Alabama, visiting
many of the towns ravaged by the tornadoes. Joined by celebrity friends like Scottie Pippin, Ken Griffey, Jr.,
Picabo Street and Al Joyner, Bo impacted the lives of countless Alabamians who rode with him and cheered for
him along the way. Bo Bikes Bama became an annual event in April 2013, when Bo returned to Alabama for a
one-day ride in Cordova, Alabama, one of the hardest hit cities of the 2011 outbreak.
Each year, Bo hopes to inspire Alabamians and people across the country to lend their neighbors a helping
hand. Money raised by Bo Bikes Bama goes to support the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund, specifically
providing funds for the construction of community storm shelters across the state.
“The reason for this ride is for state unity and to pay homage to the great Alabamians who lost their lives on
April 27th, 2011. I am my brothers’ and sisters’ keeper.”
–Bo Jackson, Heisman trophy winner, All-Star athlete, and proud Alabamian
Our FED
David Bartnicki
Title IV Training Officer
David has worked for the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid Office for 20
years. He has served as an Institutional Review Specialist, Institutional Improvement Specialist
(IIS), Branch Chief for Contract Compliance and is currently a Federal Training Officer.
David’s entire government career has been in the Atlanta Regional Office where he currently
works directly with over 1,000 postsecondary schools in the Southeast Region. As a training
officer, David provides training and technical assistance on a wide variety of federal student aid
topics to schools, state agencies, accreditation bodies and higher education organizations
through a variety of state, regional, national and Department venues.
While in FSA, David has helped redesign the FSA Assessment Modules, developed the popular
“Ask A FED” booth at the annual FSA Conferences, and developed the Department’s
compliance review process for ED’s private collection agencies. David serves on the
Conference Delivery Team, the Training Topics Report Team, and the National Verification
Team.
In addition, David has received several financial aid awards including the 2014 Certificate of
Recognition from the State of Alabama Governor Bentley’s Office; 2013 FSA Award for Most
Innovative Team, 2013 FASFAA Distinguished Service Award (FL), 2013 TASFAA
Distinguished Service Award (TN), the 2012 SASFAA Distinguished Service Award (Southern
Regional), the 2012 AASFAA John H. Buchanan Distinguished Service Award (AL), 2012
MASFAA Special Recognition Award (MS), the 2011 Kentucky “Admiral” Award, 2010 FSA
Award for Best Mission Results, the 2005 Florida Public Career Technical Center’s Merit
Award, the 2003 SCASFAA Distinguished Service Award (SC), the 2003 AASFAA Award of
Merit (AL) and the 2001 NCASFAA Award of Merit (NC).
When not working, David enjoys spending time with his wife, Christy, and sons Luke (15),
Adam (14), and Ethan (10).
AASFAA Breakfast Speaker
Thursday, April 30th, 8:15 a.m.
NATHAN BASFORD
SASFAA President
Nathan Basford has been employed with Florida State University OFA for over 35 years.
He has had the honor of serving his state association: FASFAA as president for three terms and
is the current SASFAA President.
Nathan’s attitude is that everyone, pulling together, can make the world of higher education and
specifically financial aid a better place to work and a better place for students to get a true
education.
Nathan never lets the “not me” syndrome get in the way of excellent service. Regardless of
whose job it is, he takes each challenge as his own responsibility and follows through until it is
resolved.
He has made a special effort to address issues of diversity within his own state association as
well as reaching out to other associations to celebrate the contributions of people from multiple
backgrounds and cultures.
He continues to encourage all to be more inclusive and provide quality training for all schools
and encourages participation for all avenues of the financial aid community.
Nathan enjoys teaching Sunday School to his 1-3rd grade class each Sunday, and enjoys
camping and going to the beach.
AASFAA Luncheon Speaker
Thursday, April 30th, 11:45 a.m.
DR. TOM CLEVELAND
Dr. Tom Cleveland’s extensive career includes experience teaching school in Jefferson County,
Kentucky, serving as interim pastor with 26 churches, 14 years as a Chaplain for Amedisys
Hospice and a 24 year tenure at Samford University as the Dean of Admission and Financial
Aid. During his tenure in the Financial Aid Office, Dr. Cleveland served as AASFAA
President, SASFAA President, NASFAA Vice President, was a member of the National
Council of NASFAA and led in the planning of the First National Financial Aid Conference in
Aspen, Colorado.
Dr. Cleveland’s hobbies include college basketball, grandchildren, mission related activities and
Rotary International. He has received a Citation for Meritorious Service from the Rotary
Foundation of Rotary International after he chaired 23 international exchanges.
Tom is married to his wife, Margaret Cleveland. They have four children (one deceased), seven
grandchildren and one great grandchild.
CONFERENCE AGENDA
Alabama Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
S.O.S.!! Saving our Students
April 28 – May 1, 2015
The Auburn Hotel and Dixon Conference Center
Auburn, Alabama
Tuesday, April 28th
12:00 - 1:00
New Aid Officer Workshop Registration
Pre-function Foyer
1:00 - 2:30
Conference Registration
Pre-function Foyer
1:00 - 6:00
New Aid Officers Workshop (NAOW)
Pre-registration Required
Terrace 1, 2 & 3
Topics Include: Financial Aid for Beginners, FAFSA Basics, Federal Methodology,
Verification and Cost of Attendance and Case Studies
Presenters: Michiale Schneider and Amy Gerber, Great Lakes
Betty Edwards, AASFAA Vice President
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President
3:00 - 7:00
Exhibitor Setup
Pre-function Foyer Ballroom
6:15 - 7:15
NAOW Attendees & Executive Board Dinner
7:30– 8:30
Executive Board Meeting
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Governor’s
Terrace 1, 2 & 3
Wednesday, April 29th
Sleep in and enjoy breakfast on your own
8:30 – 11:45
Conference Registration Open
Pre-function Foyer
9:00 – 12:00
Exhibit Area Open
Pre-function Foyer
Concurrent Sessions
9:30 – 10:30
Alliant Data Systems – Campus Key User Group
Ballroom B, Right
Learn more about best practices with Alliant Data Systems and how to administer
financial aid processing at your institution.
Presenter: Jace Gunter & Vickie Pridemore, Alliant Data Systems
Moderator: Joan Waters, Chattahoochee Valley Community College
9:30 – 10:30
Ellucian Banner
Governor’s
Join this discussion of best Banner system practices and issues confronting
users with the latest releases and updates.
WebEx Presenters: Mark Kichline, Ellucian Banner
Moderator: Stephanie Miller, Jacksonville State University
Continued –
Wednesday, April 29th continued
9:30 – 10:30
Ellucian Colleague
Seminar
Join this discussion of best Colleague system practices and issues confronting
users with the latest releases and updates.
WebEx Presenters: Michelle Taylor, Ellucian Colleague
Moderator: Steve Smith, University of West Alabama
9:30 – 10:30
PowerFAIDS
Ballroom B, left
Join this discussion of best PowerFAIDS system practices and issues confronting users.
Moderator: Buddy Jackson, Faulkner University
Concurrent Sessions
10:45 – 11:45
Four Year College Concerns
Governor’s
Join your colleagues for discussion of current issues affecting Alabama’s four year colleges.
Moderator: Steve Smith, University of West Alabama
10:45 – 11:45
Two Year College Concerns
Ballroom B, Right
Join your colleagues for discussion of current issues affecting Alabama’s two year colleges.
Moderator: Joan Waters, Chattahoochee Valley Community College
12:00 – 1:15
Exhibitor Appreciation Luncheon
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Open to all attendees
Special Guests: AASFAA Exhibitors, Bo Bikes Bama
& New Aid Officer Workshop Attendees
Ballroom A
1:15 – 2:30
Opening Session
Business Meeting
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Ballroom A
Presentation of the Colors - ROTC Color Guard, Auburn University
National Anthem Vocalist
Recognitions and Committee Appreciation
2:30 – 3:00
Registration Open
Pre-function Foyer
2:30 – 3:30
Exhibit Area Open
Pre-function Foyer
Concurrent Sessions
3:45 – 4:45
A Look at Default Prevention & Best Practices
Ballroom B, right
Come learn why your colleagues started a Default Prevention Program. The panelist will share
their motivation for starting a program, how they are measuring their success and the steps they
have taken to build their programs. We may not have all the answers but hope to create an
informative discussion on the importance of Default Prevention and Financial Literacy on our
campuses.
Panelists: Marcus Bryd, Alabama State University
Cindy Entrekin, Central Alabama Community College
Joan Waters, Chattahoochee Valley Community College
Moderator: Pam Jones, Southern Union State Community College
Continued –
Wednesday, April 29th continued
3:45 – 4:45
Student Interactions: Minimizing the Redundancy &
Maximizing the Relationship
Governor’s
How to make sure that you are communicating effectively with your student population.
Presenter: Laura Senn and Pamela Notemyer Rodgers, Greenwood & Hall
Moderator: Betty Edwards, H.C. Trenholm State Technical College
5:30 – 7:30
Dinner - Casual Attire
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Southern Union Show Choir
Ballroom A
8:00 – 9:00
Hospitality Suite Open – New Aid Officer’s Night
Join us in welcoming our New Aid Officers to AASFAA!!
TBA
Thursday, April 30th
7:45 – 8:45
Breakfast
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Ballroom A
8:15 – 8:45
Speaker: Nathan Basford, SASFAA President
Ballroom A
8:45 – 10:00
Registration Open
Pre-function Foyer
8:45 – 11:30
Exhibit Area Open
Pre-function Foyer
General Session
9:00 – 10:30
Federal Update
Auditorium
Title IV Training Officer David Bartnicki will provide a comprehensive overview and update on
existing Federal regulations in financial aid as well as offering interpretation and guidance on
recently enacted regulations.
Presenter: David Bartnicki, US Department of Education
Moderator: Phillip Nelson, Auburn University Montgomery
Concurrent Sessions
10:40 – 11:15
Leadership and Volunteerism
Governor’s
We are all in this together!!! Come join Kenneth Cole, South Carolina Association of Student
Financial Aid President, as he discusses leadership and ‘Getting Involved’ in SASFAA and
AASFAA where each and every person is a part of the family.
Presenter: Kenneth Cole, SCASFAA President
Moderator: Amy Gerber, Great Lakes
10:40 – 11:15
Taking an Active Role in Student Loan Counseling:
Developing a Preferred Lender List
Seminar
In today’s environment, there is a heightened focus on ensuring that students are aware of their
funding options. A preferred lender list can really help your students and families make informed
decisions. Join this discussion of the rules and best practices regarding the use of a preferred
lender list. Our session will help you better understand preferred lender arrangements, the
various types of lender lists, and how a list can help students differentiate between private loan
lenders to select an option that is best for them.
Presenter: Kellie Savoie and David Long, Sallie Mae
Moderator: Maria Parker, University of Montevallo
Continued –
Thursday, April 30th continued
10:40 – 11:15
Cash for College… A Collaboration for College Success Ballroom B, Right
Alabama Possible will present a case study of its Cash for College campaign detailing its work to
boost FAFSA completion in Birmingham City Schools from 39 percent 2014 to 70 percent in
2020. Program Manager Liora Chessin and Program Coordinator Mary Afton Day will describe
their experience forming and leading a multi-sector partnership to remove financial aid as a
barrier for students to attain postsecondary credentials.
Presenter: Liora Chessin and Mary Afton Day, Alabama Possible
Moderator: Shannon Cross, USA Funds
General Session
11:25 – 12:05
NSLDS Enrollment Reporting
Auditorium
Join Dave as he updates us on the latest guidance for enrollment reporting.
Presenter: David Bartnicki, US Department of Education
Moderator: Phillip Nelson, Auburn University Montgomery
12:15 – 1:30
Association Luncheon
Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President, Presiding
Speaker: Dr. Tom Cleveland
1:30 – 4:00
Exhibitors Open
General Session
2:00 – 3:00
Diversity and Inclusion
Ballroom A
Pre-function Foyer
Auditorium
This session will provide a clear understanding of what diversity is and what it isn’t,
raise awareness and sensitivity to Diversity and recommend tools for fostering
a more cohesive workplace.
Presenter: Nathan Basford, SASFAA President
Moderator: Buddy Jackson, Faulkner University
4:00
General Session
3:30 – 5:00
Exhibitor Break-down
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Ballroom B, Right
SAP by Dave…need we say more?
Presenter: David Bartnicki, US Department of Education
Moderator: Phillip Nelson, Auburn University Montgomery
3:00 – 5:15
“Ask a Fed” Submission Box Open
5:45 – 6:15
President’s Reception
6:15 – 8:00
Association Banquet – Business Dress
Stephanie, AASFAA President, Presiding
8:15– 9:30
Hospitality Suite Open
Pre-function Foyer
TBA
Ballroom A
TBA
Friday, May 1st – “School Spirit Day”
6:30 – 8:30
General Session
8:45 – 10:00
Breakfast Buffet using your Breakfast Voucher
Ariccia Restaurant
The Breakfast Voucher includes a full breakfast buffet
in the hotel restaurant. Vouchers will be given to attendees
at Conference Registration check-in.
“Ask a Fed” Q & A with FED
Ballroom A
Join Dave for a wrap-up of the conference with this opportunity to ask any
questions that have arisen during our time in Auburn. Anything goes in
this brainstorming session with your colleagues.
Presenter: David Bartnicki, Department of Education
Moderator: Stephanie Miller, AASFAA President
10:00
Adjourn
Conference Reminders and Information
Acknowledgements
AASFAA and President Stephanie Miller would like to acknowledge the conference committee for their many contributions
to the 2015 Spring Conference. The names of the Conference Committee can be found at the beginning of this program.
Charity – Bo Bikes Bama
AASFAA will be sponsoring a charity this year, Bo Bikes Bama. Please remember to make your cash or check (made
payable to Bo Bikes Bama) donations to Bo Bikes Bama after the luncheon business meeting or at the Bo Bikes Bama
exhibit table.
Computer Lab
Free Wi-Fi is available in the hotel lobby, guest rooms and meeting space. If you do not have a computer and need to cast
your vote for AASFAA’s elected officers, please see Past President, Kevin Ammons, for more information.
Concurrent Sessions
We are excited about the number and quality of concurrent sessions being offered; although we realize that you will not
be able to attend all of the sessions that are of interest to you. With this in mind, we hope you will be able to download
handouts from most of the sessions from the AASFAA website.
Conference Attire
Dress for the conference is business casual. Dress for the Thursday night banquet is business dress. Friday is School
Spirit Day: Wear your school colors!
Conference Headquarters
AASFAA does not have a formally designated conference headquarters. However, if you have issues or needs, you may
go to the AASFAA conference registration desk in the Pre-function Foyer. You may also contact any member of the
conference committee for assistance.
Elections
AASFAA elections are an important responsibility of AASFAA membership. Please exercise your membership privilege
and select the leadership of your association by voting. Remember that all paid AASFAA members can participate,
including individuals who are Exhibitors. Members will vote via the following link: http://www.aasfaaonline.org, click
‘Vote’. Your AASFAA username and password are required to vote. AASFAA will not have a voting booth on site as all
voting is online.
• If you have forgotten your username and/or password, you may retrieve it at www.aasfaaonline.org.
Evaluations
Evaluations will be available at the conference. Please complete the evaluation at the end of the conference and return it
to the drop box at the head table.
Emergencies
Emergencies should be reported to the AASFAA registration desk or to the hotel front desk.
Exhibits
Our exhibitors provide a broad array of services in support of the financial aid community. We encourage you to visit the
exhibitors and review the products and services available to AASFAA members. Their support is essential for AASFAA to
be able to provide the many activities and speakers to the membership. Please express your gratitude to our exhibitors
for being with us.
Meal Tickets
Your conference name badge is your meal ticket unless you are not a full conference attendee for Wednesday’s Lunch
and Dinner and Thursday’s Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Breakfast vouchers for the full breakfast buffet at the hotel
restaurant will be given to Friday conference attendees at the conference registration desk upon check-in.
Recording Devices/Cell Phones
Sessions are not to be recorded without the permission of the presenter(s). As a courtesy to our speakers, please place
your cell phone on vibrate or silent during all conference sessions and meals.
Photos
AASFAA will be taking photos throughout the conference to be posted at AASFAAonline.org and on our Facebook page.
AASFAA 2015 Exhibitors/Sponsors
(as paid by March 30th)
PLATINUM SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSORS
EXHIBITORS
AASFAA Executive Board& Committee Chairs
2014 – 2015 Executive Board
NAME
POSITION
AFFILIATION
Stephanie Miller
President
Jacksonville State University
Phillip Nelson
President-Elect
Auburn University Montgomery
Kevin Ammons
Past President
Enterprise State Community College
Betty Edward
Vice President
H.C. Trenholm State Technical College
Dana Kitchens
Secretary
University of Alabama Huntsville
Jay Powell
Treasurer
Consultant
Debra Moody
Treasurer-Elect
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
2014 – 2015 Committee Chairs
NAME
POSITION
AFFILIATION
Cheryl Newton
ACHE Liaison
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
Randi Bozeman
Archives Coordinator
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Kevin Ammons
Awards & Recognitions
Enterprise State Community College
James Theeuwes
Budget
Faulkner State Community College
Dr. Bill Wall
Bylaws
Not affiliated with an institution
Rodney Walton
Communications/Newsletter
PNC Bank
Phillip Nelson
Conference
Auburn University Montgomery
Vanessa Kyles
Diversity
Jefferson Davis Community College
Randi Bozeman
Electronic Services
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Phillip Nelson
Fall Local Arrangements
Auburn University at Montgomery
Betty Edwards
Fall Program
H. C. Trenholm State Technical College
Clark Aldridge
Financial Review
KHEAA
Kelly J. D’eath
Legislative Relations-National
Gadsden State Community College
Cheryl Newton
Legislative Relations-State
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
Brian Quisenberry
Long Range Plan &Governance Birmingham Southern University
Lissa Powell
Membership
University of Alabama Birmingham
2014 – 2015 Committee Chairs
-continuedNAME
POSITION
AFFILIATION
Kevin Ammons
Nominations& Elections
Enterprise State Community College
Dr. Bill Wall
Policies & Procedures
Not affiliated with an institution
Betty Edwards
Professional Development
H. C. Trenholm State Technical College
Donna Bass
Public Relations
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
Dr. Bill Wall
Scholarship
Not affiliated with an institution
Amy Rowell
Tammy Spratlin
Steve Smith
Site Selection
Alabama Southern Community College
Southern Union Community College
University of West Alabama
Fred Carter
Special Projects
Consultant
Paul Mittlehammer
Sponsorship
Inceptia
Tammy Spratlin
Spring Local Arrangements
Southern Union Community College
Ben Baker
Jennifer Epperson
Spring Program
University of North Alabama
Samford University
Joan Waters
Two-Year Concerns
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
PAST AASFAA PRESIDENTS
2014
Kevin Ammons
Enterprise State Community College
2013
Sharon Williams
Lawson State Community College
2012
Vickie Adams
Jacksonville State University
2011
Amanda Sharp
University of North Alabama
2010
Andy Weaver
University of Alabama in Huntsville
2009
Charles Markle
Auburn University
2008
Ben J. Baker
University of North Alabama
2007
Jonna Gibson
Regions Education Lending
2006
Buddy Jackson
Faulkner University
2005
Dr. Chip Quisenberry Enterprise State Community College
2004
Deborah Byrd
Calhoun Community College
2003
Mike Reynolds
Auburn University
2002
Dot Wilkinson
Southern Union State Community College
2001
Dee Talley
University of Alabama at Birmingham
2000
Dorenda Adams
Alabama State University
1999
Jim Bradsher
Auburn University at Montgomery
1998
Clark Aldridge
University of Montevallo
1997
Grady Collins
University of South Alabama
1996
Debbie Marcus
Bessemer State Technical College
1995
Debbie Marcus
Bessemer State Technical College
1994
Ron Elmore
Birmingham Southern College
1993
Claude McCann
University of Alabama at Birmingham
1992
Ferris Hall
Gadsden State Community College
1991
Theresa Weaver
First Alabama Bank
1990
Charlotte Hill
University of North Alabama
1989
James Berry
Auburn University at Montgomery
1988
Pebblin Warren
Tuskegee University
1987
Jim Gibson
University of Alabama in Huntsville
PAST AASFAA PRESIDENTS
-continued1986
Bill Wall
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
1985
Don Rainer
Livingston University
1984
Linda Knowles
University of Montevallo
1983
Camilla Benton
University of Alabama
1982
Harvey Watt
Enterprise State Junior College
1981
Larry Smith
Jacksonville State University
1980
Gertie Clark
Birmingham Southern College
1979
Larry Ridgeway
Auburn University
1978
Tom Umphrey
Jefferson State Junior College
1977
Bill Rodgers
University of South Alabama
1976
Linda Knowles
University of Montevallo
1975
Charles Roberts
Auburn University
1974
Jeff Golden
Troy State University
1973
Charles McCain
Jefferson State Junior College
1972
Eleanor Dean
University of South Alabama
1971
Harold Helms
University of Alabama at Birmingham
1970
Robert Dennis
University of Alabama
1969
Donald Gibson
Troy State University
1968
Otis Peacock
University of North Alabama
AASFAA Distinguished Service Award
Recipients
M. Cecil Padgett Outstanding Achievement Award
This is one of the two highest awards given by the association and is named for the distinguished financial aid director at
Spring Hill College in Mobile for many years. Mr. Padgett passed away in April, 1999. This award is presented to an
individual who is a member of the association and who has provided exemplary service in the area of student financial aid
over a sustained period of time. The award is intended to recognize outstanding contributions to higher education and
student assistance programs in Alabama.
Recipients of this award are:
2013-2014
Vickie Adams
Jacksonville State University
2012-2013
Amanda Sharp
University of North Alabama
2011-2012
Betty Edwards
H.C. Trenholm State Technical College
2010-2011
Charles Markle
Auburn University
2009-2010
Ben J. Baker
University of North Alabama
2008-2009
Buddy Jackson
Faulkner University
2007-2008
Carol Supri
Troy University
2006-2007
Andy Weaver
University of Alabama in Huntsville
2005-2006
Deborah Byrd
Calhoun Community College
2004-2005
Anthony Richey
Auburn University at Montgomery
2003-2004
Mike Reynolds
Auburn University
2002-2003
James Berry
South University
2001-2002
Deborah Talley
University of Alabama at Birmingham
2000-2001
Jim Bradsher
Auburn University at Montgomery
Donna Bass
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
M. Cecil Padgett Outstanding Achievement Award
-continued1999-2000
Clark Aldridge
University of Montevallo
1998-1999
Dr. Chip Quisenberry
Enterprise State Junior College
1997-1998
Dot Wilkinson
Southern Union State Community College
1996-1997
Dorenda Adams
Alabama State University
1995-1996
Deborah Marcus
Bessemer State Technical College
1994-1995
Claude McCann
University of Alabama at Birmingham
1993-1994
Bill Watson
Auburn University
1992-1993
Joan Waters
Chattahoochee Valley State Community College
1991-1992
Jim Gibson
University of Alabama in Huntsville
1990-1991
Jeff Golden
Troy State University
1989-1990
Larry Smith
Jacksonville State University
1988-1989
James Edwards
Lawson State Community College
1987-1988
Don Rainer
Livingston University
1986-1987
Camilla Benton
University of Alabama
1985-1986
Dr. William P. Rodgers
University of South Alabama
1984-1985
Linda Lawson Knowles
University of Montevallo
1983-1984
Larry D. Ridgeway
Auburn University
1982-1983
Gertrude B. Clark
Birmingham Southern College
1981-1982
Billy Mitchell
University of North Alabama
M. Cecil Padgett Outstanding Achievement Award
-continued1980-1981
Dr. William H. Wall
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
1979-1980
M. Cecil Padgett
Spring Hill College
John H. Buchanan, Jr. Distinguished Service Award
This is one of the two highest awards given by the association and is named for former Alabama Congressman Buchanan
who served with distinction on the House Education Committee during the 1970s and 1980s. This award is presented to
an individual or group who may or may not be a member of the association and who is not generally considered a
practicing student financial aid administrator in recognition of outstanding and dedicated service in the area of student
financial aid over a sustained period of time. The award is intended to recognize outstanding contributions to higher
education and student assistance programs in Alabama.
Recipients of this award are:
2013-2014
Cheryl Newton
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
2012-2013
Lissa Powell
USA Funds
2011-2012
David Bartnicki
U.S. Department of Education
2010-2011
Don Rhoads
Edfinancial Services
2009-2010
Ann Campbell
Financial Aid Consultant
2008-2009
No Award Given
2007-2008
Dr. William H. Wall
Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority, Alabama
Alabama College Loan Program
2006-2007
The Honorable Kay Ivey
Alabama State Treasurer
2005-2006
Melinda Calhoun
EdAmerica
2004-2005
Lora Kiser
Alabama Student Loan People
2003-2004
Thomas G. Dismukes, Jr.
Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority
2002-2003
Dr. Roy Johnson
Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education
2001-2002
Jonna Moses
Regions Student Loan Center
2000-2001
Cindy Massey
SouthTrust Bank
1999-2000
No Award Given
1998-1999
Jan B. Hilyer
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
1997-1998
Pebblin Warren
Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education
Ted Franzeim
Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority
John H. Buchanan, Jr. Distinguished Service Award
-continued1996-1997
Paul Borden
Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority
1995-1996
Theresa Duke
First Alabama Bank
1994-1995
William Jeffery
First Alabama Bank
1993-1994
Francine Reeves
U.S. Department of Education
1992-1993
Junior League of Montgomery
Scholarship Booklet and College Night Program
1991-1992
Dr. Mary Louise Sims
State Occupational Information Coordinating Committee
1990-1991
Robert S. McDonnell
U.S. Postal Inspector
1989-1990
The Honorable George C. Wallace, Jr.
Alabama State Treasurer
1988-1989
Bill Pouncey
U.S. Department of Education
1987-1988
The Honorable Howell Heflin
U.S. Senator
1986-1987
The Honorable Glen Browder
U.S. Representative
1985-1986
No Award Given
1984-1985
The Honorable Carl Elliott
Former U.S. Representative
1983-1984
Dr. Jim Vickery
University of Montevallo
1982-1983
No Award Given
1981-1982
The Honorable Jim Bennett
State Senator
1980-1981
The Honorable J. Richmond Pearson
State Senator
1979-1980
The Honorable John H. Buchanan, Jr.
U.S. Representative