As the incoming President, Aaron has three tenets to guide him and MACAC this next year; intentional community, raising up joy, and practicing gratitude. These are some of MACAC’s greatest strengths and he would love to amplify them, especially as we continue to emerge from the pandemic. Being in one another’s presence and celebrating that, bringing in joy and storytelling, and just taking advantage of opportunities we lost or were limited during that time, will only benefit our work and the work we do with our students. 

When asked what advice he would share with those who are new to the organization, he recommends taking advantage of all the event platforms MACAC has to offer and to not be afraid to connect with people at the events or even those in your local office. “We are all in this work together and everyone wants everyone to be successful”. If you have an interest, engage in a conversation with someone in your office or in MACAC that has a similar interest, because “we will all advance collectively from that and gain wisdom”. 

Aaron was inspired to take on the role of President as a way to give back to MACAC. The organization has given him so much and he has benefited immensely from the community, wisdom, and camaraderie, he felt he owed it to MACAC to give so fully to this role of President. He is especially committed to sharing all the benefits of the organization with every segment of membership. “We are all better off when those things are put forward. Collectively we are stronger with everyone’s talents in the pool”. 

We are excited to have Aaron as the new President of MACAC and look forward to the inspiring leadership and innovative ideas he will bring!

"We started the day with a great session on Direct Admissions from Aaron Salasek at the Office of Higher Education. A few folks in the room work at high schools with direct admissions while others were brand new to the information. Our Financial Aid/FAFSA information session was more information sharing than presenting, but it was really useful to hear what other high schools are doing and any helpful tips or tricks for helping a student submit their FAFSA. There were strong feelings on how poorly the new FAFSA rollout had gone, but there also was helpful information on what can be expected down the road and immediate steps that could be helpful for some schools. 

"[We would like to give] a big shoutout to Beth Diekmann from Rochester Community and Technical College, Ali Facklam from University of Minnesota, and Molly McNall from Winona State University. All three of them work in the financial aid space and we're able to share their expertise in what things look like on their end. After lunch we launched into our Hot Topics in Admissions panel that featured Brian Jones from Minnesota State - Mankato, Kaia Sherburne from Hamline University, Greta Simons from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, and Alicia Zeone - Rochester Community & Technical College). We had great conversations covering everything from dual enrollment to test optional to transferring schools. 

"High school counselors had great questions about different topics they're seeing and hearing from their students. We wrapped up the day with round table conversations where we discussed Safety/Likely Schools, 'Reach Schools' and affordability, and SCOTUS Affirmative Action changes. It was great to hear from so many different counselors and the energy in the room was infectious. 

"We also received some positive feedback from event participants:

• 'Great networking opportunity with colleagues and college admission reps.'

• 'Keep doing this. I've been a counselor for 12 years and this is the most useful college/career conference I've attended.'

• 'The most helpful workshop I've been to. I am feeling excited to get back to use the tools and ideas!'

"We're already looking forward to hosting this event again next year!"