Greetings Tri-Stators:

Well another semester has gone by and we are about to break for the holidays as I write this. Now is a good time to pause and reflect on everything that has happened over the past semester and to be appreciative of all of the opportunities we have had to help others and to grow in our personal and professional lives. Whether it was a parent or student, a colleague, or even a family member or friends you helped, when you give of yourself you receive so much in return.

The theme of this newsletter is “You Can Afford College”. This message is more important than ever. The Chronicle of Higher Education has recently reported several instances of low income student opportunities being severely curtailed due to economic conditions and budget issues. Many of us have or will be presenting at financial aid nights, volunteering for You Can Afford College in Maryland, or helping with College Goal Sunday. These are just some of the ways available to us as financial aid professionals to help others. Not to mention the holiday parties at which you will meet someone who will bend your ear for an hour when they find out that you work in the profession.

So eat, drink (responsibly), and have a good time. You get to come back and do it all over again.

It is my sincere hope that we all have a happy and healthy holiday season.