On February 27, 2007, the infamous tax detective, Jim Briggs, came to the TriState area. Sponsored by Edamerica, American Education Services (AES) and the DC Association of Financial Aid Administrators, Jim captured the attention of almost 90 TriState members, discussing how to identify misleading deductions and assets on a tax return when performing verification. This was the largest turnout ever for Jim in the TriState area, and it was fabulous to see financial aid staff coming from Delaware, DC and western Maryland. The room was packed and no one left early – a sure sign that he was smart, interesting and captivating!!

I would venture to say that even the most seasoned financial aid officer learned something in this workshop. Jim, a former IRS agent, has been providing workshops across the country with a focus on verification and financial aid. He knows the ins and outs of what parents and students do to try to get an edge when completing the FAFSA and get a better EFC. A special thanks to the Johns Hopkins University for the use of their facility.

If you would be interested in Jim coming to the Tri-state area again next year, let the Long Range Planning Committee know. Contact Karen Price at kprice@edamerica.net.