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Members of the Association recognize that one of the purposes of the Association is to provide training and informational services to its members through training conferences and periodic written and electronic material. While the Association shall utilize its best efforts to provide its members with the most current information available, there can be no assurances or warranty that any such information provided to the members is correct or has not been superseded or that more current information is not available. Furthermore, the Association can give no assurances or warranty that its interpretation of any rule, regulation, or statute will be in conformance with any present or future interpretation of such rule, regulation or statute by any appropriate governmental authority. Accordingly, each member shall hold the Association harmless from any claims, damages, or liability resulting from such member’s use of any information, data, or interpretations as provided to such member by the Association.
Wednesday, May 21
 

8:00am EDT

Vendor Setup
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
Hill Atrium
Vendor Setup
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

8:00am EDT

Registration Open
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Registration Desk
Conference Registration is Open! Come check in!
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Registration Desk Floor 1
  Conference

8:45am EDT

Light Breakfast (Mid-morning break)
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am EDT
Hill Atrium
Mid-morning break
Wednesday May 21, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

9:00am EDT

Are you ready to become a FAAC®?
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Rooms F+G
Discover the exciting journey of becoming a FAAC® and equip yourself with the essential knowledge you need to succeed. In this session, you'll explore benefits, uncover the costs, steps for applying, exam content, sample test questions, and much more! Don't miss out on this opportunity to invest in your FA future.
Presenters
EB
Moderator
CH
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Rooms F+G Floor 2
  Hot Topics

9:00am EDT

Coping with the Unknown as an FA Professional
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Rooms K+L
In the ever-evolving landscape of financial aid, professionals often face uncertainty and stress. This session will explore effective coping strategies for managing stress. Participants will learn techniques to remain calm amidst chaos and foster an atmosphere of tranquility, both personally and within their teams.
Moderators
IL
Presenters
SC

Simon Cordery

UNG Director of Student Counseling
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Hot Topics

9:00am EDT

NASFAA Core: Application Process
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Room R
Want to dive deep into the Application Process? The NASFAA Credential covers everything you need to know about FAFSA®, data processing, and making applicant changes. Get ready to go behind the scenes to understand the FAFSA®!
Moderators
MM
Presenters
BS
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Hot Topics

9:00am EDT

NASFAA Core: SAP
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Room Q
Ready to level up your SAP knowledge? This NASFAA Credential will give you that shiny recognition to impress employer knowing all the ins & outs. Stand out from the crowd and gain a competitive edge for your organization!
Presenters
JT
Moderator
AW
Wednesday May 21, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Hot Topics

10:00am EDT

Vendors Open
Wednesday May 21, 2025 10:00am - 1:30pm EDT
Hill Atrium
Stop by our vendors for information on products and to pick up some complimentary goodies!
Wednesday May 21, 2025 10:00am - 1:30pm EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

11:30am EDT

Meet & Greet: First Time Attendees
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Room D
Welcome to GASFAA! Join us for a lively Meet and Greet designed especially for first-time attendees. It's the perfect chance to mingle, make new friends, and discover why the Financial Aid community so special. Share a laugh, and let’s kick off your first time in style! You won’t want to miss this JOY-filled introduction!
Presenters
CW
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Room D Floor 2
  Conference

11:30am EDT

Past Presidents’ Meeting & Lunch
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Oak Room
Taco Bar: Chicken Tortilla Soup, Chips & Queso, Soft & Hard shell tortillas, Seasoned ground beef, Shredded chicken, Stuffed bell peppers, Mexican rice, Stewed black beans, Toppings, Salsa, sour cream, & guacamole, Cookies & brownies
Wednesday May 21, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Oak Room Floor 1
  Conference

12:00pm EDT

Lunch & Welcome
Wednesday May 21, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
Magnolia Ballroom
Taco Bar: Chicken Tortilla Soup, Chips & Queso, Soft & Hard shell tortillas, Seasoned ground beef, Shredded chicken, Stuffed bell peppers, Mexican rice, Stewed black beans, Toppings, Salsa, sour cream, & guacamole, Cookies & brownies
Wednesday May 21, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
Magnolia Ballroom Floor 1
  Conference

1:45pm EDT

Opening Session: GASFAA Executive Board & Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc.
Wednesday May 21, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall
GASFAA Executive Board Opening Remarks and GASFAA's Silent Auction is supporting Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc. in Watkinsville, GA. This inspiring organization empowers young females to become confident leaders in their communities. Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc. founder, Kiarra Trammell.
Moderators
FA
Presenters
avatar for Emmilee Mitchell

Emmilee Mitchell

Director of Financial Planning Operations, Mercer University
Emmilee Mitchell is the Director of Financial Aid Operations and Compliance at Mercer University with 12 years of financial aid experience. Emmilee has been involved with GASFAA serving in various positions on the board and volunteering for multiple committees. She is currently serving... Read More →
Wednesday May 21, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  Conference

2:00pm EDT

General Session: NASFAA Inside the Beltway Update
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall
NASFAA Federal Update will provide an overview of the latest happenings in Washington, including a high-level landscape of the current political climate in D.C. with a focus on federal financial aid policy and how it has impacted students and institutions in recent years. Overall trends in student aid will be discussed including recent legislative and regulatory activity, reauthorization proposals and predictions for how student aid funding will fare in upcoming budget negotiations. Movement within the Department of Education concerning negotiated rulemaking and updates from Federal Student Aid (FSA) will also be discussed. The session will also provide an overview of NASFAA-led projects, services, and advocacy efforts.

Live Virtual Session.
Moderators
JT
Presenters
JD
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session

2:50pm EDT

Afternoon Snack Break
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:50pm - 3:20pm EDT
Hill Atrium
Afternoon Snack Break
Wednesday May 21, 2025 2:50pm - 3:20pm EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

3:00pm EDT

Silent Auction Open
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall
GASFAA's Silent Auction is supporting Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc. in Watkinsville, GA. This inspiring organization empowers young females to become confident leaders in their communities.

By participating, you’ll help fund programs that build leadership skills and self-esteem. Bid on unique items while supporting a cause that transforms lives and shapes future female leaders!
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  Conference

3:00pm EDT

Vendors Open
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Hill Atrium
Stop by our vendors for information on products and to pick up some complimentary goodies!
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

3:15pm EDT

Do you know how to use the SAVE system?
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room Q
Have you had students come in with that dreaded C-Flag for secondary confirmation of Immigration Status? Do you second guess what you should do with it and pray that the student just 'disappears' or pays and doesn't ask questions? Then this session is for you! Come learn what to do when you get that flag and how to use the SAVE system.
Moderators
TY
Presenters
ES
CR
MP
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:15pm EDT

FISAP Tips & Tricks
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room D
Join us for a focused session where essential tips and tricks for Financial Aid Administrators (FAAs) are shared in navigating the FISAP process. Learn how to effectively utilize spreadsheets, SQL, and other tools to streamline your submissions and enhance accuracy. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your FISAP completion skills!
Moderators
NF
Presenters
NS
JW
BT
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room D Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:15pm EDT

Getting to Know Private Student Loans: Myth vs. Fact
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room R
Private student lending has grown exponentially in the last few years as the need gap has grown. This session will address the common concerns and misconceptions that schools may have regarding creating a list of pre-screened private student loan lenders. Students often rely solely on internet searches to make the important decision of which loan is best for them. The session will: Explain why it is important for FA Offices to assist students with this important decision, discuss tools FA Offices can use to pre-screen lenders, provide information on tools for application, lender choice and ensure schools remain in compliance when assisting students in choosing a lender (ELM, Scholarnet, etc.), address the questions most often asked by schools during RFI process of screening lenders for their list
Moderators
EB
Presenters
AW
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:15pm EDT

Navigating R2T4 with Modules: Beyond the Basics
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room F+G
In this session, we are going beyond the basic R2T4 calculation and diving deep into the module rules and exemptions. Learn how to identify students who do and do not meet exemption requirements and enjoy really specific and weird examples with multiple modules.
Moderators
CG
Presenters
JM

Jaime Missimer

MS President-Elect
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Room F+G Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:15pm EDT

State Program Regulations & Procedures
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Mahler Hall
A delivery of the FY 2026 (7/1/2025 – 6/30/2026) Program Regulations and Procedures with upcoming Enhancements.
Moderators
BC
Presenters
PS
Wednesday May 21, 2025 3:15pm - 4:10pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  Concurrent Session

4:20pm EDT

GA Independent, Private, & Proprietary
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Room R
Georgia Independent, Private, & Proprietary Institutions Sector Meeting
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:20pm EDT

TCSG
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Room Q
Technical College System of Georgia Sector Meeting
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:20pm EDT

USG
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Rooms K+L
University System of Georgia Sector Meeting
Wednesday May 21, 2025 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

5:30pm EDT

Presidents Reception
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
Pecan Tree Galleria
Wednesday May 21, 2025 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
Pecan Tree Galleria Floor 1
  Conference

7:00pm EDT

Dinner on your Own
Wednesday May 21, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Athens, GA
Explore a variety of restaurants in the area with information provided in your registration bag!
Wednesday May 21, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Athens, GA
  Dinner

7:00pm EDT

🎤 Bingo Unplugged! 🎶 with The Music Experience
Wednesday May 21, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Dogwood Hall
Get ready for a blast from the past! Join us for an unforgettable evening of Music Bingo Unplugged, where the thrill of music meets the fun of bingo! Dress up in your favorite decade's fashion—whether it's groovy '70s, rad '80s, funky '90s, the stylish 00's, or the trendy 10's—and show off your style for a chance to win exciting prizes!

As the tunes blast from MTV's greatest hits, you'll be dancing in your seat and singing along while crossing off your bingo cards. It's not just a game; it’s a party! So come ready to dance, have fun, and let’s make it a night to remember! 🎉
Presenters
MU
Wednesday May 21, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Dogwood Hall Floor 1
  Entertainment
 
Thursday, May 22
 

7:30am EDT

Breakfast
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT
Magnolia Ballroom
Breakfast Sandwiches: Black pepper sausage biscuits, Bacon, egg & cheese on English muffin, Egg & white cheddar croissant, Yogurt, Fruit, Honey butter, Homemade jam, Orange juice, Cranberry juice, & Coffee
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT
Magnolia Ballroom Floor 1
  Conference

8:00am EDT

Registration Open
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Registration Desk
Conference Registration is Open!
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Registration Desk Floor 1
  Conference

8:00am EDT

Silent Auction
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Mahler Hall
GASFAA's Silent Auction is supporting Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc. in Watkinsville, GA. This inspiring organization empowers young females to become confident leaders in their communities.

By participating, you’ll help fund programs that build leadership skills and self-esteem. Bid on unique items while supporting a cause that transforms lives and shapes future female leaders!
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  Conference

8:00am EDT

Vendors Open
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Hill Atrium
Stop by our vendors for information on products and to pick up some complimentary goodies!
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

9:00am EDT

Hey...Focus! Finding professional and personal success through managing 'squirrel moments'
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room F+G
Individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) face unique challenges that can impact their productivity and overall well-being. Managing these conditions at the workplace requires a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics and the implementation of appropriate strategies. In this presentation, we will explore practical approaches that can help all individuals who simply lack in focus. All can thrive in the workplace, enhancing their professional potential while maintaining personal wellness. Together, employers and employees can cultivate an inclusive work environment that will benefit both individuals and the organization.
Moderators
JS
Presenters
LM

Lou Murray

Earnest
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room F+G Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

9:00am EDT

Leadership: Navigating Teams in a Chaotic World.
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room D
This session will explore effective tools and guidance leaders can use to navigate their teams in a chaotic world. Figuring out how to lead effectively in an increasingly polarized world is challenging. One of the toughest challenges that leaders of all organizations face is managing diverse perspectives. This session will explore what leaders can do to turn down the temperature on outrage and foster productive disagreement. A discussion will be led on an overview of the current state of outrage in society, understanding outrage, strategic leadership in a polarized world, and practical steps for leadership.

Book Reference-The Age of Outrage: How to Lead in a Polarized World by Karthik Ramanna.
Moderators
LD
Presenters
WP
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room D Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

9:00am EDT

NASFAA Core: Direct Loans
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room R
Join us for a fun and engaging session all about the NASFAA Direct Loan Credential! Get ready to dive into the essentials of federal student loans, mastering loan origination, and understanding borrower benefits. We’ll cover key topics like loan limits, eligibility, and the intricacies of repayment plans. Let’s unlock the ins and outs of Direct loans together!
Moderators
MP
Presenters
JR
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

9:00am EDT

SAI Calculation
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room Q
Would you like an insider's look at how the Student Aid Index (SAI) figure is calculated? Have you completed numerous EFC hand calculations but now you need to learn how to calculate a SAI? Then this session is for you! In this hands-on session, we will walk through how to calculate the SAI for two students. These hand calculations will be based upon real-life examples.
Moderators
JR
Presenters
MP
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

9:00am EDT

State Program Regulations & Procedures
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Rooms K+L
A delivery of the FY 2026 (7/1/2025 – 6/30/2026) Program Regulations and Procedures with upcoming Enhancements.
Moderators
SB
Presenters
PS
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

9:45am EDT

Mid-morning Snack Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:45am - 10:15am EDT
Hill Atrium
Mid-morning Snack Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:45am - 10:15am EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

10:15am EDT

From Confusion to Clarify: How Targeted Financial Aid Counseling Impacts Student Retention and Aid Eligibility
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Rooms F+G
This session will focus on preliminary data from a doctoral research project that evaluates a new financial aid counseling intervention for first-year students at Pearl River Community College in Mississippi. The study aims to discover whether students’ lack of understanding of the financial aid process and eligibility requirements for federal, state, and institutional aid may be a contributing factor to poor retention and increased withdrawal rates. We will discuss retention and eligibility data for students who both did and did not attend a counseling session, as well as students’ attitudes towards the financial aid counseling based on survey data.
Moderators
CS
Presenters
JM

Jaime Missimer

MS President-Elect
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Rooms F+G Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

10:15am EDT

Identifying and Supporting Delinquent Loan Borrowers: Strategies for Effective Intervention
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room Q
It's happened, finally.....everyone has gone back into repayment as of October 1, 2024....or did they? Let's talk about "How to pull data from NSLDS", "What to do with your NSLDS data regarding your current open cohort years" and "How to move forward" - where do we go from here? We will talk about all the updates and changes with servicers, repayment plans and how to get ahead before your CDR isn't zero any longer.
Moderators
SH
Presenters
SJ
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

10:15am EDT

Managing the GA College Completion Grant
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Rooms K+L
GSFC Team, Amber Sumner, David McMillion share how GCCG funds work. Colleges sharing their process for awarding, tracking and future plans.
Moderators
KR
Presenters
DM
PS
AS
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

10:15am EDT

Unlocking the Power of SQL in Banner
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room R
Ready to elevate your SQL skills? Join us for an engaging session focused on intermediate/advanced scripts within Banner pages (RORRULE, RORALGO, etc.). We'll tackle complex queries, making this the perfect opportunity for those looking to make Banner work towards your advantage! Let’s crack the code together!
Moderators
BB
Presenters
DM
KT
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

11:30am EDT

GASFAA Awards Lunch - GASFAA Executive Board
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm EDT
Magnolia Ballroom
Georgia BBQ: Garden salad & dressing, Chopped BBQ brisket, BBQ roasted chicken, Potato salad, Coleslaw, Baked beans, Chipotle lime corn, Pickles, Onions, Jalapenos, Peppers, Hawaiian rolls, Caramel banana pudding
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm EDT
Magnolia Ballroom Floor 1
  Conference

1:00pm EDT

General Session: EMBARK
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mahler Hall
"Destination Graduation" invites you to experience the highs and hurdles of college access and success for students who have experienced foster care. Through an interactive, hands-on activity, you'll step into a student profile and face the real-life barriers these students often encounter on their path to higher education. The session sheds light on a staggering statistic: just 10% of student who have foster care experience earn a bachelor’s degree by age 26. Participants will have the chance to ask questions, share perspectives, and consider systemic and individual solutions. Walk away with a deeper understanding and practical ideas to support students from where you stand.
Presenters
DM

David Meyers

University of Georgia
LL

Lori Lange Tiller

University of Georgia
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session

2:45pm EDT

Introduction to Financial Aid
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room F+G
Designed for new financial aid professionals, this session provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial aid administration. Attendees will learn about the FAFSA process, types of financial aid (grants, loans, work-study, scholarships), need analysis, cost of attendance, and packaging strategies. The session will also introduce key compliance requirements and best practices for student advising, ensuring that new staff members build a strong foundation in financial aid principles. Also introducing key websites for training and information: NSLDS, COD, FSA Partners, Studentaid.gov, NASFAA, FAFSA Partner Portal, GA Futures, GSFC.
Moderators
DM
Presenters
JR
avatar for Casey Worley

Casey Worley

Executive Director of Financial Aid, Chattahoochee Technical College
Casey is the Executive Director of Financial Aid at Chattahoochee Technical College where she oversees all Financial Aid at the college. She has been in the financial aid department at Chatt Tech for over 10 years. She currently serves on the 2024/2025 GASFAA Executive Board as Treasurer-Elect... Read More →
MH
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room F+G Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

2:45pm EDT

NASFAA Core: Direct Loans pt. 2 (Examples & test questions)
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room Q
Are you ready to implement the information learned earlier in the day? In this session, we'll focus on the test questions, examples, and answers! This session will prepare you to test for the credential once you receive your voucher after conference.
Moderators
BV
Presenters
JR
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

2:45pm EDT

Student Demographics & Invoicing
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L
How to know when your invoice reject is a demographic issue and how to resolve for rejected invoices
Moderators
JH
Presenters
AS
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

2:45pm EDT

What we learned in 2425 and looking forward to 2526
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room R
Are we dreaming, or did we truly survive the saga of 2024-2025? Join us in this session as we explore the lessons learned from the U.S. Department of Education, C-Flags, SAR comment codes, and the adventures that lie ahead for 2025-2026! May the Force be with us as we prepare for what’s next!
Moderators
AW
Presenters
JC
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:15pm EDT

Afternoon Snack Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Hill Atrium
Afternoon Snack Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Hill Atrium Floor 1
  Conference

3:45pm EDT

Building Resilience
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room D
This session on Building Resilience will highlight the essential traits of resilient individuals and explore effective strategies to enhance emotional strength. Discover practical tips for improving stress management, fostering connections, and increasing positivity in both personal and professional settings. Enhance your well-being and productivity with us!
Moderators
MG
Presenters
CW

Concepta Williamson

Citizens Bank
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room D Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:45pm EDT

Compliance Adventure: Navigating Consumer Information
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room Q
This session will explore two critical pillars of Title IV compliance: Consumer Information and Administrative Capability. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of institutional responsibilities related to Title IV eligibility and effective strategies for implementing compliance measures. The session will emphasize the importance of transparent consumer information disclosures, ensuring administrative capability, and fostering interoffice collaboration to meet federal requirements. Through this interactive session, attendees will acquire actionable insights and tools to strengthen their compliance programs.
Moderators
avatar for Melodie Pirone

Melodie Pirone

Financial Aid Director, Southern Crescent Technical College
Certified Financial Aid Administrator®Southern Crescent Technical College12 yrs 3 mos12 yrs 3 mosAssistant Director Of Financial AidSep 2018 - Present · 4 yrs 9 mosFinancial Aid SpecialistJun 2013 - Sep 2018 · 5 yrs 4 mosFinancial Aid technicianMar 2011 - Jun 2013 · 2 yrs 4 m... Read More →
Presenters
KK
JT
CW
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

3:45pm EDT

From Info Overload to Informed: Streamlining Student Communication & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L
With students facing an overwhelming amount of financial aid information, this session focuses on strategies to simplify and personalize communication. Participants will explore best practices for email, text, and portal-based messaging to engage students effectively with using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The session will highlight Slate, demonstrating how it can be used to automate outreach, track student interactions, and improve response rates. By the end, attendees will be equipped to create a streamlined, student-friendly communication plan that enhances engagement and reduces confusion with the help of AI!
Moderators
MH
Presenters
ES
JH
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:45pm - 4:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:45pm EDT

AI’s Role in Financial Aid Succession Planning: Unlocking Leadership Potential
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room D
Given the well-documented staffing challenges in student financial aid, the need for effective and efficient succession planning has never been more critical. Prudent use of innovation through AI can help ensure organizational stability and continuity by identifying, developing, and preparing employees to fill essential leadership and other crucial staff roles.

This session will cover how AI can significantly improve succession planning by offering data-driven insights, streamlining processes, and enhancing decision-making to ensure the right people are prepared for key roles. Our panel will compare and contrast the traditional framework of staff management to available AI tools that have the potential to make succession planning more proactive, data-driven, and equitable.
Moderators
TI
Presenters
SH
BA

Bill Ayers

College Ave
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room D Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:45pm EDT

Game On! Turning Financial Aid Learning into a Fun Experience
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room Q
Financial aid training doesn’t have to be boring! This session introduces interactive learning techniques to make financial aid concepts engaging and memorable for both students and staff. Attendees will explore gamification strategies, including quizzes, scavenger hunts, escape rooms, and team challenges, that reinforce critical financial aid knowledge while increasing participation and retention. By incorporating competition and rewards, financial aid offices can create a culture of continuous learning and enthusiasm.
Moderators
KG
Presenters
MH
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room Q Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:45pm EDT

HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship & Grant CHECS Files & Data
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L
A review of the CHECS files and data provided for calculations in determining eligibility.  Includes the information CHECS needs and the information CHECS provides and how to use CHECS data for eligibility.
Moderators
BD

Becky Davis

Ascendium Education
Presenters
DM
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Rooms K+L Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

4:45pm EDT

Understanding SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) and Appeals
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room R
Why it’s important: SAP policies impact student retention and aid eligibility. This session would cover qualitative and quantitative SAP standards, the appeal process, academic plans, and best practices for advising students at risk of losing aid.
Moderators
AG
Presenters
NF
CS
CH
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Room R Floor 2
  Concurrent Session

5:45pm EDT

Dinner on your own
Thursday May 22, 2025 5:45pm - 10:00pm EDT
Athens, GA
Explore a variety of restaurants in the area with information provided in your registration bag!
Thursday May 22, 2025 5:45pm - 10:00pm EDT
Athens, GA
  Dinner

7:00pm EDT

Think, Win, Give! 🎉 Trivia Night Benefiting Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Dogwood Hall
Join us for a laid-back Trivia Night where questions meet a great cause! Test your knowledge and support Encourage H.E.R. Academy, Inc. Create a team, bring your friends, enjoy some laughs, and help inspire the next generation. Trivia + you = Lots of fun!
Entrance Fee:
• $20 per team (2 members)
• $30 per team (3-4 members)
• $40 per team (5 or more members)
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Dogwood Hall Floor 1
  Entertainment
 
Friday, May 23
 

7:30am EDT

Breakfast
Friday May 23, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT
Magnolia Ballroom
Southern: Muffins, Scones, Fruit, Scrambled eggs, Hash browns, Grits, Biscuits & gravy, Bacon, Chicken sausage, Honey butter, Homemade jam, Orange juice, Cranberry juice, & Coffee
Friday May 23, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT
Magnolia Ballroom Floor 1
  Conference

9:15am EDT

General Session: GSFC Update
Friday May 23, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am EDT
Mahler Hall
Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) updates
Presenters
CG
Friday May 23, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session

9:30am EDT

General Session: SASFAA Update
Friday May 23, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am EDT
Mahler Hall
SASFAA Update
Moderators
KS
Presenters
LA

Leigh Ann Hussey

SASFAA Representative
Friday May 23, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session

10:15am EDT

Federal Update Panel Discussion
Friday May 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Mahler Hall
Our panel members will discuss the latest updates in federal financial aid policies and what's happening with the U.S. Department of Education. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions to engage with our panel and ask lots of questions! Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the latest news!
Moderators
JB

Joe Buchholz

Ellucian
Presenters
NF
MH
JC
Friday May 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session

11:15am EDT

Closing Session: GASFAA Executive Board
Friday May 23, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am EDT
Mahler Hall
GASFAA Executive Board Closing Remarks
Presenters
avatar for Emmilee Mitchell

Emmilee Mitchell

Director of Financial Planning Operations, Mercer University
Emmilee Mitchell is the Director of Financial Aid Operations and Compliance at Mercer University with 12 years of financial aid experience. Emmilee has been involved with GASFAA serving in various positions on the board and volunteering for multiple committees. She is currently serving... Read More →
Friday May 23, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am EDT
Mahler Hall Floor 1
  General Session
 
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