Speakers

Co-Chair of Thompson Coburn’s Higher Education Practice

About:

The Co-Chair of Thompson Coburn’s Higher Education Practice, Aaron has over two decades of experience assisting institutions to navigate complex legal and policy matters.  He and his colleagues are valued for their deep understanding of the postsecondary regulatory framework, including requirements relating to the federal financial aid programs, accreditation, and state authorization.  The host of Thompson Coburn’s popular Higher Education Webinar Series, and editorial director of REGucation, the firm’s higher education law and policy blog, Aaron is a frequent writer and speaker on topics relating to higher education policy and regulation.  He currently resides in Saint Louis, Missouri, with his wife and three kids, the world’s greatest dog, a second dog, and three rowdy chickens. 

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid, Brightpoint Community College

About:

Andrew Quinn has worked in financial aid for the last 13 years in a private 4-year, public 4-year, and now in a public 2-year community college. He is currently the Director of Financial Aid at Brightpoint Community College and is the immediate past president of the Virginia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Community College Leadership at Old Dominion University. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, focusing on health/fitness, trying new restaurants, traveling, and seeing live music!

My Speaking Sessions:

Vice Provost for Enrollment Management, University of Georgia

About:

Dr. Andy Borst is the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Georgia.  He is recognized as a national expert on college admissions and enrollment, and is often cited in the Chronicle of Higher Education, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and other new outlets.  Dr. Borst often presents nationally on the importance of data transparency and collaboration in college admissions.  He has experience leading university-wide initiatives to reform admissions practices, create new tuition-guarantee programs, strategic scholarship leveraging programs, and working closely with faculty to shape admissions review criteria.  He has worked in a variety of higher education settings including three flagship universities, regional campuses, and a liberal arts college.  

My Speaking Sessions:

Senior Assistant Director of Compliance, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

About:

Audrey White is the Senior Assistant Director of Compliance in the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She brings more than a decade of experience in financial aid, beginning her career as a Graduate Work Study student at her alma mater, The University of Alabama. Since then, she has held roles at Samford University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham before joining UNC–Chapel Hill. Audrey currently serves as the NCASFAA Treasurer-Elect and the SASFAA New Aid Officer Curriculum Coordinator, in addition to contributing to multiple committees for SAFSAA and NCASFAA, as well as the NASFAA Leadership Conference. Her previous volunteer leadership includes serving as Vice President of AASFAA, participating on the SAFSAA Conference Committee, and chairing three consecutive AASFAA conferences. A proud alumna and former Division I rower for The University of Alabama, Audrey continues to stay active through Masters rowing. She is also pursuing a personal goal of running a half marathon in all 50 states — with 10 states completed so far!

My Speaking Sessions:

Federal Grants and Withdrawal Coordinator, University of Kentucky

About:

Beth Mekus began at University of Kentucky’s Student Financial Aid and Scholarships Office as a Federal Work Study student before graduating in 2012 with a degree in Elementary Education.  With a teaching job offer on the table, she rerouted her plan to stay on at UK, and has worked there since, both as a financial aid counselor and the Federal Grants and Withdrawals Coordinator.  In line with these interests, she enjoys volunteering with KASFAA, collecting NASFAA Us, and throwing epic office parties!   Outside of financial aid, Beth volunteers with UK’s Community Hearing Board and serves as an Election Official.  She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her husband, 2 daughters, and 4 fur-kids.  

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Director of Financial Aid, Bethune-Cookman University

About:

Brenda Ilojiole started her career in higher education over 10 years ago. Currently serving as the Associate Director of Financial Aid at Bethune-Cookman University, she has made significant contributions to the field. Brenda holds a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology and a master’s degree in Higher Education from the University of Central Florida. With all 16 NASFAA credentials to her name, Brenda plays a pivotal role in both front-end and back-end processing within the financial aid department.     While much of her work revolves around systems and processing, she takes great pleasure in personally guiding students through their educational journeys, valuing the meaningful face-to-face interactions that come with that experience. In addition to her professional achievements, Brenda is the founder of the Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship, which is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic aspirations. Outside of her work, she enjoys cooking and embraces her creativity through various DIY projects.

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Vice Provost and Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Vanderbilt University

About:

Brent Tener currently serves as Assistant Provost and Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships at Vanderbilt University and has worked in higher education for over 35 years. He has presented numerous times at national, regional and state associate conferences, and was one of the main architects of Vanderbilt’s current need-based financial aid program, Opportunity Vanderbilt. Prior to Vanderbilt, Brent worked at Wichita State University in Admissions and in Financial Aid.   Brent graduated from Wichita State University with a B.A. in Political Science and a M.Ed. in Counseling, with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration. He is a Past National Chair of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

My Speaking Sessions:

Relationship Manager, Ascent Funding

About:

Chantelle Isaacs has worked adjacent to the Higher Education field for 7 years, with a background in pre-college and grad-school test prep, career services and advising, coding bootcamps, and now private lending at Ascent Funding. Through her varied experiences, the desire to help students succeed and thrive is her driving force. She is excited to bring her hobby of playing Dungeons and Dragons into the realm of Financial Aid.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Student Financial Services, Belmont University

About:

Charles is the Director of Student Financial Services at Belmont University. He has been at Belmont for 30 years. Charles has served as a member of the TASFAA Executive Board for over a decade.  Charles was the 2017-18 and 2022-23 TASFAA President.  Charles has also served on the SASFAA Executive Board in 2017-2018 and 2022-23 along with being part of the NASFAA Advocacy and NASFAA State Advocacy committees. Charles earned both his BS degree and his M.Ed. in Organizational Leadership and Change from Belmont where his focus was on working with and managing a multi-generational workforce in a millennial age.  Charles has presented various sessions at TASFAA, FASFAA, and SASFAA along with serving as one of the instructors for the SASFAA Leadership Symposium. When not serving the students on Belmont’s campus, Charles serves as a youth leader for his church and enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife, Jamie and their two sons, Brennan and Aiden.

My Speaking Sessions:

Deputy Director, University of South Florida

About:

Dameion is the Deputy Director in the Office of Financial Aid at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. Dameion also oversees USF’s Financial Wellness Program which includes retention and graduation rate efforts for USF and has worked in financial aid at USF since 1997 at various levels of progressive responsibility.  Dameion has served FASFAA as President-Elect (2019-20 and 2022-23), President (2020-21) and (2023-24) and Past President (2021-22 and 2024-25). Dameion has also served a term as FASFAA Financial Literacy/Debt Management Outreach Coordinator and a term as a Region Representative.   Dameion currently serves SASFAA as the Community Engagement Chair. Dameion has provided numerous presentations for the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (SASFAA), the Florida Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (FASFAA), The College Board, and The Higher Education Financial Wellness Summit. Dameion has also served on the SASFAA 20/20 Diversity Committee and was a part of the inaugural NASFAA Diversity Leadership Program class.  

My Speaking Sessions:

Vice President of Professional Development and Institutional Compliance, NASFAA

About:

Dana Kelly is the Vice President of Professional Development and Institutional Compliance for the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA). She oversees NASFAA’s Professional Development division—including Training & Regulatory Assistance, Certification & Credentialing, and Corporate Partnerships—and manages the association’s two signature events: the National Conference and the Leadership & Legislative Conference & Expo. With more than 30 years of experience in financial aid, Dana is part of NASFAA’s executive leadership team, aligning professional development, compliance, and member engagement with the association’s strategic vision. Prior to NASFAA, she served as a national trainer and regional director for Nelnet and as Director of Student Financial Planning at High Point University.

My Speaking Sessions:

AVP of Financial Assistance and Student Employment, University of Miami

About:

Daniel T. Barkowitz, Assistant Vice President of Student Financial Assistance and Employment, University of Miami  Daniel T. Barkowitz, FAAC®, has served more than 35 years in institutions of higher education. Daniel has volunteered with NASFAA, SASFAA, EASFAA, FASFAA (Florida), and MASFAA (Massachusetts), including serving as the inaugural chair of the NASFAA's Commission of the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program, president of FASFAA, and president of SASFAA.

He served as the primary negotiator for financial aid administrators in the 2021 Federal Negotiated Rulemaking. Daniel is a recipient of NASFAA’s Meritorious Achievement Award, FASFAA’s Distinguished Service Award, MASFAA's Presidential Award, two-time recipient of FASFAA’s President’s Recognition Award, two-time recipient of MIT's Dean of Undergraduate Education Infinite Mile Award, and the recipient of Florida College Access Network's (FCAN) Top Influencer Award. 

Daniel earned his B.Sc. from Northeastern University, his M.Ed. from Boston University, and a certificate in Professional Fundraising from Boston University. He is a frequent conference presenter, published poet, musical theater actor, and Tarot card designer and collector. Daniel has two adult children and an adorable fur-baby.   

My Speaking Sessions:

Institutional Compliance Specialist, Tennessee Higher Education Commission

About:

David Haggard embarked on his journey in financial aid in 2001, developing a passion for making higher education accessible to all. Along with earning his master's degree in higher education administration in 2007, he honed his expertise at small private colleges and universities in Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Tennessee. His hands-on approach has allowed him to become proficient in most facets of the financial aid office, equipping him with a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by students and institutions alike. In 2024, David took on the role of Institutional Compliance Specialist at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), where he now plays a vital role in guiding schools through the intricate landscape of federal and state aid regulations. With a commitment to fostering compliance and supporting educational institutions, David continues to champion the cause of accessible education in Tennessee and beyond.

My Speaking Sessions:

Training Specialist, FSA Training and Information Services Group

About:

Effie Barnett began her career at DeVry University - Chicago in 1984, where she advanced to Director of Financial Aid. Effie then worked at the U.S. Department of Education (ED) in 1990 and 1991 as an Institutional Review Specialist in Chicago, and Alternate Training Officer for the Chicago and Atlanta regional offices. She left ED to work at Northwestern University and was the Director of Financial Aid - Chicago for twelve years of those sixteen years. 

After realizing that her heart belonged to public service, Effie returned to Federal Student Aid (FSA) in 2008 as an Institutional Review Specialist. She became an Institutional Improvement Specialist (IIS) in 2010 and remained in that position until becoming a Training Specialist in Spring 2020. Effie has processed eligibility and method of payment actions, resolved deficient compliance audits, conducted program reviews and new school visits, and developed and delivered training to school officials and FSA staff. 

As a Training Officer, Effie presents at Fundamentals of Federal Student Aid Administration workshops, FSA webinars, and conferences. She develops training materials and provides technical assistance via AskAFed.

Effie has a Bachelor of Music degree from the Sherwood Conservatory of Music, a Master of Project Management degree from the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University, and a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

My Speaking Sessions:

Training Officer, Training and Information Services Branch

About:

Elijah Henderson is a Training Officer with the Training and Information Services Branch of the Federal Student Aid (FSA) office. In his role, Elijah manages website content, provides technical support, and contributes to the development and delivery of training workshops for financial aid administrators. Prior to joining FSA, Elijah served as an Administrative Assistant at the U.S. Department of Labor, where he supported multiple functions including HR onboarding, Section 508 compliance, and property management.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Elijah now resides in Washington, D.C. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Administration, both from Gallaudet University, driven by his strong passion for public service. Outside of his professional work, Elijah enjoys cooking, staying active through fitness, and traveling.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid, Vanderbilt School of Medicine

About:

Dr. Heather Boutell (pronounced Bough, or Bow, like in Bow Wow or when the bough breaks) is the Director of Financial Aid at Vanderbilt School of Medicine in Nashville, TN. Heather has worked in the field of financial aid for 34 years, spending the last 6 years as Director of Financial Aid at Vanderbilt School of Medicine. Heather has been active in professional organizations and served as the President of the Kentucky Association of Student Aid Administrators in 2004-2005 and President of the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators in 2008-2009.  She has served on the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Board of Directors several times in appointed and elected positions.  She received the KASFAA and SASFAA Distinguished Service Awards, and the NASFAA Regional Leadership and Meritorious Achievement Awards for her contributions to the profession.  Heather earned her Bachelor of Music Education, her Master of Education in College Student Personnel Services, and just a year ago now, her Ed.D. at Lipscomb University.  She also holds the FAAC certification. Heather, her husband Steve, and cat Crouton reside in Lebanon, TN. They have two adult sons who both live in Chicago. For fun, Heather loves reality TV competition shows – ask her about Dancing with the Stars, Survivor, Top Chef, or Amazing Race!  

My Speaking Sessions:

NASFAA National Chair, and Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Financial Aid, Purdue University

About:

Heidi Carl is the Assistant Vice Provost and Executive Director of Financial Aid at Purdue University. She has over 28 years of financial aid, admissions, and enrollment management experience and has previously worked at Wabash College and the University of Indianapolis. Heidi earned her bachelor’s degree in communications and her master’s degree in higher education administration from Western Michigan University. She has served in several elected and volunteer roles at the state, regional, and national level, and is a past president of the Midwest Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (MASFAA) and ISFAA (Indiana). She has served on NASFAA's Board of Directors as MASFAA regional representative and served as Chair of the Career Path Awareness for Financial Aid Administrators Thought Force. Heidi is committed to the people in our profession and helping to make critical changes to elevate the recognition and training for the unique skill set that is necessary for financial aid professionals of the future.   

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Provost and Director of Scholarships and Student Aid, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

About:

Jackie Copeland is the Associate Provost and Director of Scholarships and Student Aid at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where her journey began as a first-generation college student. With over two and a half decades of experience in financial aid, Jackie exemplifies leadership and strategic vision. She develops financial aid and student success strategies for both graduate and undergraduate populations, notably guiding the Carolina Covenant Scholars Program, which offers a debt-free path to graduation for low-income students, and the inaugural Carolina Financial Well-being Center, enhancing financial literacy and basic needs support, in partnership with the Dean of Students. She regularly advocates for students and is passionate about access to higher education and ensuring that all students have the resources and opportunity to thrive in college and beyond. Jackie’s influence extends beyond campus; she is the incoming Vice President of the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (SASFAA), representative-at-large for NASFAA, member of the Coalition of State University Aid Administrators (COSUAA) steering committee and has served in a variety of volunteer roles at each association. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Master of Science in Leadership from Pfeiffer University.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid, Pearl River Community College

About:

Dr. Jaime Missimer is the Director of Financial Aid at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, Mississippi, where she brings a decade of experience in financial aid, alongside an additional ten years in various roles within higher education. Jaime currently serves as President of Mississippi MASFAA and is actively engaged with SASFAA by serving on the board and assisting with training in FAAC prep courses and the New Aid Officer Workshop. In December 2025, she earned her Ed.D. in Higher Education at the University of Southern Mississippi. Her previous education includes a master’s degree in higher education administration from Louisiana State University and a bachelor of business administration from Loyola University New Orleans. Born and raised in New Orleans, Jaime now enjoys life in rural southern Mississippi, where she lives with her husband, daughter, four dogs, two cats, and a lively flock of chickens.

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services,  Converse University

About:

James Kellam (J.W.) is the Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services at Converse University and has worked in Higher Education and Financial Aid administration for almost 30 years. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Salisbury University, Salisbury, Maryland in 1989, a Master of Business Administration from American Public University, Charlestown, WV in 2013, and a Doctor of Education in Professional Leadership from Converse University, Spartanburg, SC in 2022. He is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Honor Society for Business Administration Professionals and the Golden Key National Honor Society.

My Speaking Sessions:

 Assistant Director for Verification and Appeals, University of Georgia

About:

Jennifer Benson is the Assistant Director for Verification and Appeals with the University of Georgia’s Office of Student Financial Aid. 

With over 20 years of experience in postsecondary education, Jennifer has served in a variety of departments, including Admissions, Registration, Financial Aid, Academic Advising, Student Support, Recruitment, and Student Activities.

 These diverse roles have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the higher education landscape and enabled her to make a meaningful impact on both students and staff alike. She is dedicated to fostering an environment that supports student success and organizational growth.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of the Health Office of Financial Aid at the University of South Florida (USF)

About:

Joan Bailey is the Director of the Health Office of Financial Aid at the University of South Florida (USF), where she primarily supports graduate and professional students. Her career in financial aid began in 1996 as a graduate student assistant in USF’s Office of Financial Aid. Over the years, Joan has held numerous roles at USF. She left USF for a brief stint at St. Petersburg College in 2010 before returning to USF five years later to join USF Health.

An active leader in the financial aid community, Joan has served in multiple capacities at the state, regional, and national levels. As of July 1, 2025, she began her term as President of the Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (SASFAA), after previously serving as SASFAA’s Site Selection Chair for four years and as the Vice President, 2019-2021. Joan has served as  both Vice President, President and Past President of the Florida Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (FASFAA). Joan has also contributed to numerous committees and task forces within FASFAA, SASFAA, and NASFAA, and served as NASFAA’s Graduate & Professional Caucus Chair from 2021–2023. She currently serves as a NASFAA’s Board Observer, representing SASFAA. A frequent presenter at FASFAA, SASFAA, NASFAA, and AAMC conferences, Joan is deeply committed to mentoring and supporting the professional growth of financial aid administrators. 

Outside of her professional endeavors, Joan enjoys life as an empty nester with her husband and takes pride in her daughter, who also works in higher education.

My Speaking Sessions:

Special Agent, Office of the Inspector General 

About:

Lisa has 35 years of federal service and started her government service as a stay in school clerk for the U.S. Information Agency in 1988. In 1989 Lisa joined the U.S. Secret Service as a clerk typist. After obtaining her master's degree in 1999 Lisa joined the U.S Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG) as an Audit Evaluator. After several years as an evaluator, Lisa joined the USPS OIG, Office of Investigations as a Special Agent. As a Special Agent with the USPS OIG, Lisa conducted health care, mail theft, financial crimes, and internal misconduct investigations. Lisa’s passion for investigations continued when she left federal service for an investigator position with the Dental Board of Examiners with the State of Maryland from 2016 to 2018. Lisa returned to federal service as background investigator for the Department of Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency in 2018 until 2022. Lisa joined the U.S. Department of Education OIG in January 2022 as a Special Agent where she currently conducts criminal, civil, and administrative investigations such as federal student aid fraud, fraud and corruption in school districts, after-school programs, and grant and contract fraud. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and a Master of Science degree in Administrative Management from Bowie State University.

We will go over the mission, types of fraud committed by schools, students, contractors, etc., differences between OIG, FSA, Partner participation and oversight, external fraud, sources of allegations, examples of cases and questions.

My Speaking Sessions:

Senior Assistant Director of Scholarships, University of Georgia

About:

Lori Whitaker serves as the Senior Assistant Director of Scholarships at the University of Georgia. With twenty years of experience in financial aid, she is dedicated to supporting student success through effective scholarship management and equitable access to educational opportunities. Lori is committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals by ensuring that financial resources are both accessible and impactful.

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Vice President for Financial Planning, Mercer University

About:

Maria Hammett, PhD, is the Associate Vice President for Financial Planning at Mercer University, where she has served for more than 30 years leading financial aid strategy, compliance, and student-centered funding initiatives across undergraduate, graduate, professional, and working-adult programs.  Maria is a past president of GASFAA and has chaired professional training and webinar series focused on regulatory changes and best practices. She is passionate about financial wellness, service innovation, and using AI responsibly to improve efficiency and student support. Maria earned her PhD in Education Leadership in 2023, studying andragogy in nontraditional college settings, and brings an energizing, practical approach to helping teams “put the fun in funding.”

My Speaking Sessions:

 Institutional Compliance Specialist, Tennessee Higher Education Commission

About:

Marian Dill is the Institutional Compliance Specialist at Tennessee Higher Education Commission

My Speaking Sessions:

Senior Policy Analyst, NASFAA

About:

Megan Walter is a senior policy analyst at NASFAA. In her role, Megan interprets federal student aid legislation and regulations for NASFAA’s members, works with NASFAA’s members to develop policy recommendations, and provides feedback to policymakers on legislative and regulatory proposals. Before joining NASFAA in 2017, Megan worked in financial aid administration for six years, having held roles in the financial aid offices at Alvernia University and the University of Cincinnati, and earned her master’s degree in Higher Education. 

My Speaking Sessions:

President & CEO, NASFAA

About:

Melanie Storey is the president and CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), beginning her tenure on May 1, 2025. With decades of experience in federal higher education policy, financial aid operations, and organizational leadership, Storey brings deep expertise and a steadfast commitment to advancing access and equity in higher education.

Storey most recently served as director of policy implementation and oversight at the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), where she led cross-functional teams in translating federal policy into practice. She played a central role in implementing the FAFSA Simplification Act and the FUTURE Act, and contributed to major initiatives like federal student loan debt relief. She frequently represented FSA before congressional staff, administration officials, and higher education leaders.

Before joining the Department, Storey led policy and strategy work at the College Board and served as director of national initiatives at the American Council on Education (ACE), where she supported national commissions, analyzed legislative proposals, and led public service campaigns. Earlier in her career, she was a policy analyst at the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), conducting research and collaborating with government relations staff on federal policy proposals impacting private institutions.

A proud first-generation college graduate and financial aid recipient, Storey earned a master's degree in public affairs from the Lyndon B. Johnson School at the University of Texas at Austin and holds bachelor's degrees in economics and public policy from Smith College.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid and Student Accounts, Wake Forest University School of Professional Studies

About:

Linda Aubrey-Higgins serves as the Director of Financial Aid and Student Accounts at Wake Forest University's School of Professional Studies and has a distinguished 20-year career in financial aid administration, student support services, and budget management.  Throughout her career, Linda has worked with diverse student populations at multiple universities, where she has provided leadership and strategic planning and managed complex financial aid budgets totaling more than $20 million, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring students and families have access to the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about higher education financing.  Linda’s academic credentials include a Master of Divinity from Hood Theological Seminary, a Master of Public Administration, and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Augusta State University. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Ministry at Wake Forest University School of Divinity. Additionally, she maintains an active membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  Despite her numerous achievements, Ms. Higgins holds her most treasured role as that of a mother to her beloved daughter, Layla. They share a passion for watching football games, traveling to Layla’s gymnastics competitions, shopping, singing, and enjoying Christmas movies together.

My Speaking Sessions:

Executive Director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, University of Georgia

About:

Nancy Ferguson is a seasoned leader in student financial aid, currently serving as Executive Director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Georgia. With over 27 years of experience in higher education administration, she has dedicated her career to helping students access the financial resources they need to achieve their academic goals. A UGA alumna with a Bachelor’s in English and a Master’s in Education from the Mary Frances Early College of Education, Nancy was among the nation’s first Certified Financial Aid Administrators. Her career spans a range of roles in financial aid, giving her extensive expertise in policy, compliance, and student advocacy.  As Executive Director, Nancy leads a dynamic team overseeing scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Her leadership has driven innovative initiatives to improve office operations and enhance student services. Recognized for her student-centered approach, Nancy is committed to breaking financial barriers and expanding educational access for students from all backgrounds. An active member of state, regional, and national professional financial aid organizations and a sought-after conference speaker, Nancy continues to advocate for equitable higher education policy and practice.

My Speaking Sessions:

Student Lending Relationship Manager, Citizens Bank

About:

Preston Dodson currently serves as a Student Lending Relationship Manager with Citizens Bank, where he supports institutions across North and South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Prior to joining Citizens in December of 2024, Preston dedicated 13 years to the Financial Aid Office at Campbell University in North Carolina, progressing through a variety of roles. His journey began as a Graduate Assistant working with the Federal Perkins Loan and culminated in his role as Director of Financial Aid, a position he held for the final 3.5 years of his tenure at Campbell.  

My Speaking Sessions:

Vice Provost of Enrollment, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

About:

Rachelle Feldman is a passionate advocate for affordability and access and an experienced leader in enrollment, financial aid, and financial education.  Most recently she served as the vice provost for enrollment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she led admissions, scholarships and student aid, the Carolina College Advising corps, the university registrar and enrollment and student success strategy. Since joining Carolina in 2016, she has advanced access and affordability initiatives, including the Blue Sky Scholarship, the Kessler Scholar program for rural, first generation students, and the Carolina Financial Well-Being Center. Previously, she served as assistant vice chancellor for financial aid and scholarships at UC Berkeley. Rachelle is currently a member of the SASFAA Executive Board, as well as serving as vice-chair of the National Endowment for Financial Education

My Speaking Sessions:

Associate Director of Financial Aid, Hampden-Sydney College

About:

Rosa began her financial aid career in 1998.  Prior to that she worked in the banking industry for 7 years.  Her first financial aid position was at Longwood University, a small 4-year public institution.  After 8 ½ wonderful years, she found her forever home at Hampden-Sydney College, a private, all-male school in rural Virginia. Hampden-Sydney is one of the oldest colleges in the US, and is currently celebrating its 250th anniversary.   She currently serves as the Associate Director of Financial Aid. Her duties include:  ISIR reviews, awarding, Verifications, SAP, R2T4,  Federal Work Study reconciliation, annual and endowed scholarship designations, Veterans benefits, dumpster fire prevention, and ‘other duties as assigned.’  Durning her 27 years as a member of the Virginia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, she has served on numerous committees, presented at conferences, and has served on the state board for 4 years.  She currently serves as President-elect.  Outside of financial aid, Rosa has been happily married for over 35 years, and has 2 grown children, both of whom were married during the past year.  She doesn't have any grandchildren yet, but is looking forward to that role.  She plays the piano for her church, and serves as their treasurer.  

My Speaking Sessions:

Assistant Vice President of Financial Aid & Scholarships, Coastal Carolina University

About:

Dr. Samantha Hicks is a Certified Financial Aid Administrator who currently works as the Assistant Vice President of Financial Aid & Scholarships at Coastal Carolina University.  Dr. Hicks holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and a Doctoral Degree in Education with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership.  Her journey in financial aid began as a work-study student at CCU in 2007, where her personal experience with financial aid opened doors to higher education and ignited her passion for the field. By 2010, she joined the team as a financial aid counselor. Her doctoral research focused on financial stress and literacy among undergraduates, reflecting her commitment to addressing financial challenges in student populations. Samantha has served in various roles in SCASFAA, SASFAA, and NASFAA.  She is the current President-Elect for SCASFAA and encourages everyone to get involved.  She resides in Conway, South Carolina, and loves cooking for her husband, Jamal, and their daughter, Francena Joy. 

My Speaking Sessions:

Assistant Director for Scholarships, University of Georgia

About:

Shelby Jarrett serves as the Assistant Director for Scholarships at the University of Georgia, where she oversees need-based scholarship initiatives with a particular focus on the Georgia Commitment Scholarship program, supporting the state’s highest-risk students. She also collaborates with departments across campus to guide the effective administration of their scholarship awards. With a background rooted in student access and success, Shelby is passionate about removing financial barriers and empowering students to thrive at UGA. She holds a B.A. in History and Anthropology and an M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communications, both from the University of Georgia.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid, Central Alabama Community College

About:

Stephanie has been working in financial aid for over 20 years. She began her financial aid career as a work-study student years ago. She left financial aid for a brief time following graduation to teach high school and open her own financial services business. After a while, her alma mater, Jacksonville State University (JSU) in Jacksonville, AL, came calling with a request to return to the Financial Aid Office to ‘help out’ during a peak season. Needless to say, how could she not help out? After helping out, she decided to stay at JSU. She left JSU after 14+ years to accept a position with FA Solutions, LLC as a consultant for public, private, 2-year, and 4-year schools across the nation. Her love of school information systems and financial aid along with her NASFAA Credentials and being the first in Alabama to earn the NASFAA Certified Financial Aid Administrator designation, allowed her to broaden her knowledge base to assist in training staff, instructors, and administration within and outside of the financial aid office on the processes and effects of federal financial aid on students and the institution. Today, she serves as the Director of Financial Aid at Central Alabama Community College.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Community Engagement, NASFAA

About:

Tim serves as NASFAA's Director of Community Engagement, where he works to create a sense of belonging and community for NASFAA members. Tim works closely with internal and external partners to ensure an experience that helps NASFAA members find their people. Before joining NASFAA, Tim worked for more than 10 years in higher education serving in student housing, financial aid, and community development. He is a proud graduate of SUNY Plattsburgh and Shepherd University, with a master's degree in College Student Development and Administration.

My Speaking Sessions:

Director of Financial Aid, Western Governors University

About:

Vanessa is the Director of Financial Aid at Western Governors University (WGU), operating out of Salt Lake City, Utah.  She has over 12 years of financial aid and higher education experience and earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and gender studies from the University of Utah as well as her master’s degree in management and leadership from Western Governors University. Vanessa has served her state and regional associations (UASFAA and RMASFAA) as a presenter, instructor, committee member/chair, and elected officer – most recently stepping into the RMASFAA President role for 25-26. She has had the honor of serving at the national level as well, most recently on NASFAA’s Advancing the Profession Task Force and 2024 Conference Planning Task Force. Vanessa is passionate about facilitating effective and compassionate leadership, a culture of responsible borrowing, and student-centric decision-making. She is an advocate for continual learning, professional development, and change management with a fondness for documentation. When she’s not working, Vanessa enjoys fostering kittens and supporting local art.

My Speaking Sessions:

Financial Aid Counselor, Brightpoint Community College

About:

Yvonne Giannini is a Financial Aid Counselor at Brightpoint Community College and Co-Chair of the VASFAA Membership Committee. Since entering the profession in 2021, she has worked directly with students and families, developing a strong foundation in financial aid operations and service delivery.

My Speaking Sessions:

Deputy Director, SC Higher Education Tuition Grants Commission

About:

Zach Christian is the Deputy Director of the Tuition Grants Commission.  Prior to joining the Commission in 2016, he served as a financial aid counselor at his alma mater, Winthrop University.  Zach currently serves on the SASFAA Conference Committee as the South Carolina rep..  In additional to his involvement with SASFAA, Zach is the Past President Council Taskforce Chair for SCASFAA, is the current Conference Co-Chair for the National Association of State Student Grant & Aid Programs (NASSGAP) and serves on the State Advocacy Network with NASFAA.  Zachary earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music and History from Winthrop University in 2014, a Database Analyst Certificate from Midlands Technical College in 2017, and achieved the FAAC® designation through NASFAA’s Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program in 2024.  Zach and his husband, Joseph, just celebrated 11 years of marriage this past October, and have three spoiled furbabies: their dogs, Hashbrown & Abby, and their grumpy cat, Wayne.

My Speaking Sessions: