District V
By Sandy Aston-Wash, Chair

Greetings District V members! At the beginning of the year we had anticipated an exciting training schedule from Sheriff Dave and we certainly received one.

On November 1, 2007 District V and VI combined to present the NASFAA Decentralized Training Workshop, “Counseling Students and Families: Tackling Financial Issues.” The workshop was held at Walter’s State Community College and was well attended by financial aid administrators. Thought-provoking topics were discussed such as, “Generational Characteristics” that compared and contrasted the various generations from the GI Generation (1901-1924), through the Millennials (1981-2001). By understanding the value system and the communication style of each generation, the financial aid professional is better equipped to communicate with the individual, be it parent or student. It was good to be reminded that an elderly parent/grandparent would most likely prefer a telephone call or a written letter, rather than an e-mail.

On January 7, 2008 District V and VI came together again at WSCC to offer the New Aid Officer Workshop. Some of the attendees had only been on the job a few days and found the information extremely useful. One helpful topic was the explanation of the elements used to calculate the EFC. Understanding what goes into the calculation allows us to better explain the outcome—even if the student disagrees with it!

Finally, College Goal Sunday on February 10, 2008 was a success, not only in District V, but across the state. This year the weather was much more cooperative.

Hopefully everyone will be able to attend the spring conference in Memphis, because it is through our professional development that we continue to improve our administration of financial aid.