As I step into the role as Chair of DE-DC-MD Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, Inc I do so with excitement, determination and deep sense of commitment. I have been an active member of this association since 1995, starting out on the Conference Committee. I found Tri-state to be a great way to learn more about my new profession, and meet the people who have become true friends, helpful colleagues and mentors. With the guidance, support and gentle persuasion of Barb Miller, I ran for Maryland State President. This was a scary and exciting endeavor for me. I found that role to be very rewarding both personally and professionally. It was such a wonderful opportunity, which exposed me to new challenges and allowed me experience true accomplishments. The best part was that I was always among friends and we always had fun. I then served a term as the Association Treasurer. This was something that truly gave me a newfound respect and admiration for those who have led this association over the years. Even during the most challenging times, I always knew I had support. Now as Chair, I am faced with the challenge of upholding our Mission, supporting our hardworking Committee Chairs and building for the future. I hope to find someway to give back to the association that taught and given me so much.

This year marks the 35th Anniversary of our Association. In honor of this event, we have reduced Membership fees to $5.00. Please keep in mind that this is for the 2004-2005 year only. We hope this will encourage active membership for many of you for this year and years to come. Ingrid Valentine and her committee are planning a fantastic Fall Conference at the Carousel Hotel in Ocean City to help us celebrate!

The strength of any Association lies in several places – in its leadership, in its membership and most importantly, its volunteers. I’d like to introduce your 2004-2005 Executive Board:

Chair Elect/Finance Committee	Rich Heath, Anne Arundel Community College
Past Chair/Nominations & Elections	Bob Foultz, Suntrust
Vice Chair/Conference Chair	Ingrid Valentine, American University
Delaware President	Lynn Iocono, Wilmington College
District of Columbia President	Sonia Lomax, Howard University
Maryland President	Rachel Brinkley, Educaid/Wachovia
Awards & Scholarships	Sharon Hassan, Goucher College
Development	Susan Stitely, Frederick Community College
Electronic Services & Technology	Pat Rhodes, Towson University
Federal Relations	Sarah Bauder, University of Maryland Beth McSweeney, University of Maryland - Baltimore
Historian	Jacqui Daughtry-Miller, Independence Federal Savings
Long Range Planning	Janet Walker, Medix School
Membership	Laura Boesler, Mount Saint Mary’s College
Newsletter	Melissa Gregory, Montgomery College
Organization & Governance	Molly Burdusi, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Professional Development & Training	Melvina Johnson, National Education Barbara Miller, University of Baltimore
Community Service	Pat Shoemaker, Anne Arundel Community College
College Goal Sunday	Cissy Van Sickle, Computer Technology Services, Inc.

We are very lucky to have such a great team of volunteers. But we do need your help! Please take some time to look each committee up on our Website and learn all that they do to meet your needs. If you find something that appeals to you, please contact the committee chair directly. This is the time to get involved! There are so many opportunities that don’t require much time out of the office and are equally rewarding.

Based on the recent Long Range Plan Survey results, we are actively looking at our Policy and Procedures and By Laws. We are enhancing our website to further meet your needs. We are expanding our Training Events. We took your comments and will be using them as our guide. If you didn’t get a chance to complete the survey, please contact me directly.

This is a very exciting upcoming year, with lots of changes and challenges. I seek your advice, help and support in making this year successful. In return, I promise to uphold 4 values that I feel set the stage for a successful year:

Communication, Action, Respect, Encouragement!

Thank you for the opportunity to lead this wonderful organization!

Warmest regards,
Sandy Brown
Incoming Chair 0405