I am thrilled to serve as your 2012-13 chair of DE-DC-MD ASFAA, Tri-State! I have had the honor of serving with a talented and dedicated group of people. Volunteering and then chairing the Awards and Scholarships Committee has been an incredibly fulfilling experience- I have gained so much knowledge.

The success of our association is dependent upon its members and volunteers. My number one goal this year is to increase volunteerism. It's time for those of us who have served on committees and in leadership roles on the executive board year after year, to step back and support new volunteers to step up with fresh ideas and enthusiasm so that our association can continue to grow and be successful.

I am proud of our association! Our Federal Relations Committee won the Gold Star Award at the NASFAA 2012 Conference this summer. This award "recognizes innovative ideas in the financial aid arena". Our Professional Development Committee had a record year at the neophyte training with 49 attendees coming from 18 different schools. The Verification Workshop held at Stevenson University had over 90 financial aid professionals in attendance and our Spring Training at Hood College had 105. Our Fall Conference held at Dover Downs was a great success. Our conference committee offered sessions such as How to Prepare for an Audit, Professional Judgment, Student Loan Repayment Options and Verification. The Awards and Scholarships Committee awarded 6 $1000 scholarships to students attending, Notre Dame of Maryland University, Frostburg State University, Wilmington University, Wesley College, Trinity Washington University and Georgetown University. All our committees work hard and are a shining example of what it means to be a financial aid professional.

We need to continue to support each other in our profession as well as support students and their families so that our association remains one of the best in our region!

Have a wonderful year!

Danielle J. Ballantyne
Chair 2012-2013

Statement of Ethical Principles

Vision Statement

DE-DC-MD Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators will advocate and promote equal access to post secondary education for all students. We will counsel and encourage our students and each other to reach our goals and dreams. For financial aid professionals, we will continue to provide training for all levels of financial aid personnel, from front line counselors to those in complex leadership positions. Our organization will provide a positive impact for the education of our country.

Goals and Objectives

• To focus on educational awareness and availability for students.
• Provide support and encouragement for all Financial Aid professionals through training and networking with the organization.
• Continue to build strong relationships among the members.
• To continue to promote a stable and secure financial outlook for the organization.