Beginning May 7th, 2007, online voting will commence. Members will also have an opportunity to vote at the conference in Virginia Beach should you forget to go online beforehand. You will be sent an e-mail with voting instructions around the first of May. The Nominations and Elections committee has put together an excellent slate of candidates for you to make a selection for each office, and is presenting two by-law changes for your consideration. The candidates’ statement of candidacy and pictures are provided for your assistance.

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Candidate for President-Elect

Brenda Burke

Statement of Candidacy
I would like to extend my appreciation to the Nominations and Elections Committee for giving me the opportunity to serve VASFAA in the office of President-Elect. I am grateful for the chance to give back to an organization that has given me so much over my 18 years in higher education.

I believe in VASFAA and truly enjoy being a member. The saying “the more you put into something, the more you get back” definitely holds true for VASFAA. I still remember the day when my former supervisor supported my involvement in VASFAA. I had no idea the possibilities it would open for me both personally and professionally.

I have been an active member of VASFAA since 1991. During this time, I served in numerous capacities that have represented both committee and board involvement. My committee involvement has included the conference committee, the membership committee that I co-chaired in 1997-1998 and chaired in 2002-2004, and the training committee that I co-chaired in 2006-2007. I have also served on the Board as Treasurer-Elect during 2004-2005 and as Treasurer during 2005-2006.

I bring a unique perspective to VASFAA as my financial aid background includes working in the proprietary sector, the 2-year public sector, and the 4-year public sector. This opportunity has taught me that while we all administer various financial aid programs, each sector has unique opportunities and challenges that must be addressed to have the process appear seamless to the students and the institutions.

VASFAA is an organization that strives to build an atmosphere of inclusion within the organization for the entire membership. Communication is vital for this goal to be successful. I encourage everyone to take an active role in VASFAA. If elected, I will be accessible to the membership and take your concerns to the Board for action. I will continue to promote VASFAA’s growth and accomplishments as we meet our goals and objectives.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve VASFAA. I appreciate your support and look forward to working with the membership to further the mission of VASFAA.