Here it is, early June, and this is the last reflection from the fountain that refreshed VASFAA’s spirit. It doesn’t seem possible that the 2007-08 year is almost over and that transition is scheduled for June 23-24. “Hold the fort down” never had such meaning as it has this year. It was a year of constant change and insecurity. It’s said that some part of financial aid changes each day. That doesn’t even include the state or institutional changes in policy that affect the processing of programs. It appears that meeting the constant of change isn’t noticeable to financial aid officers because it is a part of daily life.

That said, here are some comments on the last quarter of the year. The conference held at the Marriott at City Center appears to have been an immense success. Around 288 members attended the program from May 19-21. The sessions were well attended and full of content that members took back to the offices. The keynote speakers were superb. State Senator John Miller gave the opening speech, and thanks to a conference co-chair’s personalized touches, explained how integral financial aid officers are to the success of students seeking access to higher education. TV journalist Tony Brown spoke as the keynote speaker on Tuesday morning. His comments on values his mother taught him were a lesson in learning to the membership and he drew a standing ovation at the end of his speech.

This conference was noteworthy because it was the 40th anniversary of VASFAA. The banquet on Tuesday evening was very special. Twenty-six of the Past Presidents returned to help celebrate VASFAA’s successes. Barry Simmons gave a special invocation, Sue Deaton Ross and Rita Bodie led the anniversary toast, and Buddy Johnston introduced a special program prepared by the Past Presidents. It was thoroughly enjoyed by the membership.

LeaderDog.org was the charity event this year. Amy Berrier, incoming NCASFAA President, assisted the committee with this effort. VASFAA proudly raised over $4,000 for this worthy cause. One of our loyal friends was not present this year. Baxter left for his journey into eternity on April 30th. His presence was missed but was still felt. He was smiling with that old Baxter face, proud that his VASFAA friends came forth to recognize him by supporting leader dog training through this project.

The Board met on the Sunday before the conference and approved the slate of candidates. Those elected for the 2008-09 year are Sheila Nelson-Hensley, President-Elect (2009-10); Heather Hollingsworth, Treasurer-Elect (2009-10); Keisha Pope and Paula Rafferty, Representatives-at Large (2008-10). They will work with Brenda Burke, President; Keith Wellings, Treasurer; Vera Riddick, Secretary; Melissa Barnes and Bill Wendle, Representatives at Large, to continue building VASFAA’s bridges in 2008-09.

All things considered, VASFAA did some unique and extraordinary accomplishments this year. Redefining vendor/sponsor involvement and contributions, writing a code of conduct for the association, hosting the SASFAA conference in northern Virginia during its 45th anniversary meeting, working with far less funding to accomplish awareness, secondary school counselor meetings, support staff training, new aid officer training, not only in the fall but also at the conference; these efforts in a year never before experienced is something that members can be proud to state. Dues and the conference fee were not increased this year while sponsor contributions were cut in half. Training events were quality yet inexpensive, and localized and inviting to involve even more of the membership. VASAFAA volunteers took the challenge, came forward and demonstrated that they are forward thinking, creative, dependable, and not afraid to make a difference. “Many hands make light work”, an old adage that holds true even now in the most changeable of times. VASFAA members are to be congratulated for being responsive and responsible to the goals and mission of its association.

As the transition occurs, sincere thanks and gratitude come from this proud 2007-08 President of VASFAA, happy to have worked with the best colleagues in the nation and in awe of what VASFAA has accomplished. Thank you, thank you, thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who make VASFAA what it is. Heartfelt wishes for the best of everything to everyone! Love y’all!