Submitted by:  Ellie Geiman

Welcome to the new year for DE-DC-MD Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, or more frequently called Tri-State. The new Executive Board members are in place and preparing to serve in various capacities. I want to personally thank everyone for their willingness to step up to the plate and give of their time and talents.

One of the biggest challenges of any organization is finding volunteers to get the job done. My first experience on a committee was in 1998. I was encouraged to volunteer for the Fall Conference Committee and this began a chain reaction as I was elected for the position of Chair of the Conference Committee in the year 2000. Was it a lot of work? Of course, but it was a team effort. Conferences and training events can only happen when there is a group effort.

Here is where I ask for your help. The list of committees can be found on the website www.dedcmdasfaa.org (How do you like our new look?). Select "The Association", and then select "Leadership" – here you will find the committees and the chairperson. I want to encourage you to consider serving the Association. It is a rewarding experience and helps the organization impact our professional industry.

One committee in particular needs our support. The Professional Development and Training Committee is in charge of planning events, such as Neophyte and Diversity training. Committee members are needed to find locations, contact speakers, handle registration and and even help set up meals. Many meetings are done by conference calls to limit the amount of time out of the office. If it works better for your schedule, you may help with only one event for the year. An important part of a successful event is the volunteers.

If you would like to offer your assistance to the Professional Development and Training Committee, please contact one of the following Co-Chairs of the Committee: Andrea Cipolla at acipolla@umuc.edu or Aristea Williams at awilliams@edfund.org.