Greetings Tri-Stators:

Echoing the sentiment of our Editor – Spring has Sprung! But then something happened. As the weather turned warmer and there was reason for optimism, snow returned in some areas and colleagues faced setbacks. In spite of this, the work of Financial Aid continues and we have more “opportunities to learn” than we may have wanted.

Most of you already know from the listserv that my boss and long time Tri-stater, Larry DiGregorio, is fighting cancer. He is in treatment for this terrible disease and we all wish him well. I wanted to take this opportunity to provide you the ability to support a professional colleague by sending a card or making a phone call. I should say that many have already called and written and those communications have been well received. Don’t let up. Keep those cards and letters coming. Larry is at home and can be reached by writing or calling him at:

As you read this, we will have already completed our Spring meeting and planning has begun for the Fall conference which will be our 35th anniversary. Make plans on your calendar to attend, as it should be quite special.

The board has worked hard this year to examine numerous aspects of our governance and related policies. We have approved moving $10,000 to next year’s board budget in preparation for our 35th year celebration. In addition, we are rolling back the clock and only charging a $5.00 membership fee in honor of this celebration. On another important financial note, we voted to double the number of scholarships provided from six to twelve for this year. The recipients are included in this issue.

As we near the end of my tenure, there is still work to be done for the association. Our committees continue a number of important activities, some of which are reported in this issue. You still have “opportunities to learn” more about your profession by being involved. Contact any member of the board to offer your services. Our incoming chair, Sandy Brown, is planning her retreat to be held in June when I relinquish the gavel and daily responsibility for association activity.

I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate newly elected officers. They are listed in our Nominations and Elections report.