Welcome to the DE-DC-MD ASFAA website, also known as Tri-State! We are comprised of 400 student financial aid professionals from Delaware, District of Columbia and Maryland. 

Over the past 5 years, student financial aid has changed dramatically.  We, as an industry, have survived the roller coaster ride of multiple regulation changes which added, amended and eliminated programs and processes.  Change is not easy and it is definitely a struggle to grasp and accept at times. However, we move forward implementing all the amendments to the regulations and help our students.   Our past chair said it best “We, as an industry and an Association, have weathered the storm.”   Yet, I have to wonder with the debt ceiling debates and the 1.5 trillion dollar call for reductions what the next storm will bring.

 As financial aid professionals, we do not have to accept regulation changes that Congress and the Department of Education propose as being “out of our hands.”  Tri-State has and will remain active in promoting the needs of the students we represent by working with our regional and national associations to enlighten elected officials to the needs of our students.  Discussions at the Executive Board retreat were centered on keeping the membership informed via numerous channels, promoting advocacy both on state and federal levels and increasing participation in advocacy for our programs.

I would like to encourage everyone to get involved not only in advocating legislation for our students but by joining Tri-State committees.   If you are interested in getting involved click on Association above and then click on Leadership.  You will see all the different committees, the minutes from the meetings and the dedicated individuals who agreed to chair and/or volunteer to keep Tri-State membership informed and trained.

I feel blessed to be part of this illustrious field of professionals and honored to have been elected chair for 2011-2012.  I hope to see all of you at the many events and trainings the Executive Board members are planning for the upcoming year.  Please contact me with any suggestions or ideas to help make Tri-State more beneficial to you.

Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to serve as your Chair.

Angie Hovatter
Chair 2011-2012

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.