Orego n Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators

www.oasfaaonline.org

Nov/Dec/Jan 2008-2009

Newsletter Executive Council A publication of the Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, a not-for-profit membership organization

Crisanne Werner President President’s letter Donna Fossum President-elect As we begin 2009, we naturally find ourselves reflecting on the past year. We are also looking ahead with optimism and some trepidation as these Leslie Limper challenging times directly impact the financial aid profession. Circumstances Past-president may vary from college to college. However, one thing that remains the same is we all need each other. This is so true, don’t you think? Kevin Multop Vice President Ours is a noble profession, one of service and one with tangible outcomes as we walk the Community Colleges educational path with our students and families. They count on us for our financial aid expertise and for our listening ears and wise counsel. They want to know we care, even when Katy Wilson the news we share may not be what they want to hear. Yes, our career path is noble, stressful Vice President and ever-changing. We are financial aid professionals, a unique bird, indeed. Independent Institutions

Anny Hawkins I think you will agree that it is absolutely necessary for us to occasionally break away from the Vice President daily grind and interact with other colleagues. There is nothing more energizing, in my opinion, Proprietary Schools than getting together with other people who are in the same profession. They can understand exactly what you are talking about, and can encourage and offer advice like no one else. They Deanna Smith can also reassure you that you are not going crazy! Vice President Public 4-Year Schools Here is a wonderful option for you, which addresses the above concerns! The perfect break- away destination is the OASFAA 41st Annual Conference at Salishan Spa and Golf Dick Heath Resort, Gleneden Beach, Oregon, February 1-3. The conference theme this year is Secretary “Going the Distance: Working Together to Overcome Challenges.”

Ryan West A get-away to the Oregon coast, a chance to see old friends and make new ones, to laugh, relax, Treasurer refresh and recharge, is just what the doctor ordered. I do hope you will join us. We’ll miss you if you are not there, as we definitely all need each other. Registration and agenda information can be found at www.oasfaaonline.org.

Warm regards,

Crisanne Werner

Membership Chair Inside Every Issue… Inside This Issue…

Letter from/to the Editor ...... 2 OASFAA Election Results ...... 3 Heather Mattioli About OASFAA ...... 2 OASFAA Annual Conference Update . . . . . 3 Assistant Director of New Members/Members on the Move . . .2-3 VP Reports...... 4 & 6 Financial Aid OSAC Update ...... 5 & 9 OASFAA Support Staff Workshop ...... 4 Portland State University Member Profile ...... 8 Member Article: Jeff Southard ...... 7 email: [email protected] On the OASFAA Calendar ...... 12 News from NASFAA ...... 11 On the Lighter Side ...... 12 In Closing: Farewell to a Friend ...... 12 Editorial Policy Letter from the Editor by Sue Shogren, NELA Opinions expressed are those of the authors Along with news and updates on OASFAA events, this issue offers reflections and thoughts to and not necessarily of ponder. Kevin Multop, VP for Community Colleges, reminds us why we do what we do. Haley OASFAA, its members, Chitty of NASFAA, examines our present condition for indications of what our future may look or the institutions like. Jeff Southard of ECMC suggests ways we can help students weather the tough financial represented by the times ahead. authors. You’ll also find two articles from the Oregon Student Assistance Commission offering valuable OASFAA welcomes all information. Susan Degen provides clarification of changes to the processing of the Oregon views and invites Opportunity Grant. Carrie Matsushita summarizes the OSAC Scholarship Application process , members to submit for highlighting improvements that make it easier than ever for students to apply. publication articles, essays, photographs, or We’ve brought back a popular feature: our “Member Profiles” will help introduce you to one of information of general your OASFAA colleagues in each issue of the Newsletter. President-elect Donna Fossum agreed interest to all members. to respond to our “20 Questions” this month. Look for more profiles in upcoming issues. Submissions should be brief and may be edited. Just prior to publication of this issue we learned the sad news that a friend and colleague It may not be possible passed away unexpectedly. Please take a moment to read Judy Saling’s article in remembrance to publish all articles of Paul Carlile. Paul was a dedicated professional and a tireless advocate for higher education submitted. Email items access. In his memory, let’s continue to do all we can to support those who need to know that for publication to: college really can be within their reach. [email protected] Keep sending in your news. Publication of the next issue is scheduled for April 2009.

Editorial Board

Sue Shogren, Editor About OASFAA Welcome New Members! Regional Training Executive for NELA Membership grows during Karrie Blake, Phagans' Beauty Schools NW 15410 NW Oak Hills Dr. the year, usually reaching its Heather Block, Phagans' Beauty Schools NW peak just prior to the Annual Beverly Boyd, OSAC Portland, OR 97006 Conference each January. In Michael Budke, Linn-Benton Community College phone: (503) 530-0488 email: susan.shogren@ the past 3 years, OASFAA Belle Cantor, Oregon Community Foundation nela.net has averaged approximately Karen Carter, Columbia Gorge Community College 350 members per year. Susan Carver, Crisanne Werner, Linfield Larry Cheyne, Oregon Department of CCWD College Diane Clark, Carol Dickenson, University of Oregon Judy Saling, University of Jane Eggers, Concordia University Oregon Lori Emmons, Rachel Geiger, Warner Pacific University Nancy Hanscom, Susan Hicks, OSAC University of Oregon Kara Hirano, University of Oregon Beth Hurd Abril Hunt, Clackamas Chris Logan, Lewis & Clark College Community College Kelli Macha,

Heather Mattioli, Portland State University Todd McCollum, Linfield College Advertising Alecia Neum an, Pacific University For 2008-2009, nearly 20% For advertising Stephanie Pollard, Warner Pacific College of OASFAA’s members are information and rates, Sam Rennick, The Ford Family Foundation new. or to submit ads, please Rodica Resendez, Heald College contact the Editor. Em ily Sm ith, Pioneer Pacific College Kathleen Spangler, University of Oregon ©2009 by the Oregon Shauna Stift, Pioneer Pacific College Association of Student Anita Sweet, Pacific University Financial Aid Administrators. Janet Turner, You are authorized to photo- copy all or part of this Cristina Upton, Pioneer Pacific College publication for distribution Renee Vanzant, Pacific University within your institution. With Connie Vasquez, Phagans' School of Hair Design any questions, contact the Kristin Wochnick, Portland State University Editor. Jam ie York, Warner Pacific College Page | 2 Members on the Move OASFAA Annual Conference

Jennifer Christian Wright was promoted to 2009 Assistant Director of Financial Aid at . The 2009 OASFAA Annual Conference will be held February 1, 2 and 3, at the Salishan Spa & Golf Resort on the Dawna Flanagan left the Registrar’s Office at Oregon coast. Register for the conference at: Eastern Oregon University to join the Financial www.oasfaaonline.org/docs/conferences/conference_09/re Aid Office as their newest Financial Aid Counselor. gistrationinfo_2009.html. To make room reservations, call Salishan’s Reservation Department at 1.800.452.2300 or Karen Fobert was promoted to Senior Assistant 1.888.SALISHAN. Tell them you are attending this Director at Lewis & Clark. She joined the Student conference to receive the conference rate, which will be Financial Services staff at Lewis & Clark in 2004. honored two days before and after the conferenc e. Ashley Kikukawa was named Assistant Director at Lewis & Clark. Ashley joined the staff shortly after graduating from Lewis & Clark in May 2006, Volunteer Opportunity and most recently served as Loan Specialist. The 2009 Annual Conference is fast approaching. If you Kim Pearson leaves Marylhurst University early plan to attend, consider volunteering a bit of time to help in February to become Director of Financial Aid at out at the registration desk. Concorde Career College. We need people to help check folks in on Sunday between Carolyn Prescott has been appointed Interim 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., and on Monday from 7 :00 a.m. to Director of Financial Aid at Eastern Oregon noon. University. We also have a block of time Monday from 4:00 to 5:00 Theresa Schierman joined George Fox p.m. to sell meal tickets. University as Financial Aid Advisor.

Janet Turner left Clark College in Vancouver, If you are interested in volunteering please email Sheila Washington, to become Director of Financial Aid at Yacob ([email protected]) to let her know which day University of Portland. and time-frame(s) work best for you.

Past OASFAA presidents Don Black and Sam Thanks in advance for helping out! Collie joined with Tam i Trover Crosson to form a consulting firm that will assist financial aid offices in the west with a variety of unique challenges. Annual Conference Service Project

If you or someone you know has received a Do you have old athletic shoes that have Gone the promotion or taken a new position, we’d like to Distance?! know. Email: [email protected]

The 2009 OASFAA Conference Service Project invites you to bring any and all old unwanted athletic shoes to the Conference. We will be collecting your (and your

OASFAA Election Results friends, coworkers, and neighbors) athletic shoes (of any brand) that have Gone the Distance to be recycled by The 2009-10 OASFAA Executive Council: Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe program.

President-elect These shoes will be transformed into Nike Grind which is Patti Brady-Glassman, Oregon State University used to create sports surfaces (like playgrounds and tracks) in under-served communities. This is just another Segmental Vice Presidents way for OASFAA members to help make a positive Bert Logan, difference in young people's lives. Heather Hall Lewis, University of Portland Scott Money, Art Institute of Portland And, remember, the space you use in your luggage for Nancy Hanscom, University of Oregon your recycled shoes for this good cause can be replaced with all the great stuff you may wish to purchase at the Secretary local shops! Michelle Frei, Klamath Community College The 2009 OASFAA Conference Committee gratefully Treasurer-elect acknowledges your support for this great project. Karen Fobert, Lewis & Clark

Page | 3 VP Report: OASFAA Support Staff Workshop by Leslie Hinkle, University of Oregon, and Fayne Griffiths, Clackamas Proprietary Schools Community College by Anny Hawkins, Everest College – Co-Chairs Jennifer Knight Portland The OASFAA Support Staff Workshop took a slightly different turn this and Mary McGlothlan. year. Take Me to Your Leader; Discovering the Leader Within, focused I want to take this time to thank everyone on teamwork and leadership with a lesser focus on the changes to for making this year in OASFAA a financial aid law. The 48 attendees were introduced to a 3-part memorable one for me. During this past leadership model that included Leadership of Self, presented by Alan year, I’ve met some very wonderful people Lohner, author and Motivational Speaker, Leadership of Team, in OASFAA and have had the honor to presented by Pam Farmer, Director of Organizational Development and serve on the OASFAA Executive Training, University of Oregon, and the final segment on Leadership of Committee. Community, presented by Jennifer Knight, Senior Client Relations Manager, EdFund. Aside from OASFAA it has been a very busy year for me at the campus. I was The OASFAA Support Staff Workshop was held Friday, November 7 , at recently promoted to Director of Student Clackamas Community College's Wilsonville campus. 50 valuable Finance at Everest College, so I’m learning support staff attended as we explored the topic of leadership. new things on a daily basis while I settle into my new role. I’m also working on my We welcomed President Robin Baker of as our Masters Degree in Human Resources, keynote speaker. His keynote address began by asking the question recently engaged, and going to be a "What do you think makes a good leader?" Attendees gave him grandmother again. descriptive words that characterize such leaders. He then helped them to see that these qualities are not specific to just leaders of departments While I close out the year as Proprietary or organizations but qualities either already present within us or those VP, I would like to wish everyone good to strive for. luck in everything they pursue in their lives. To the new Proprietary VP, I would After the Keynote address, we were given our HERA update by Kathy like to say: congratulations and good luck. Campbell, Associate Dean of Enrollment Services at Chemeketa You will enjoy every minute of it!! continued on page 7

Page | 4 OSAC Update: Oregon Opportunity Grant by Susan Degen, Oregon Student Assistance Commission

Editor’s Note: Is OSAC still sending out those Has OSAC established a priority At the request of emails about potential OOG list for new awards if additional the author, the awards? funds become available? If so, following No. Emails to potentially eligible what is that list and when might information is students were suspended in late OSAC make new awards? from the OSAC November. OSAC has proposed a priority list, publication entitled subject to approval by the OOG “Suspension of Oregon Opportu- Some students might use the OOG Steering Committee and the nity Grant Awarding on/after Estimator on the OSAC website to Commission. No decisions about 12/1/08 – Frequently Asked calculate awards for which we priority rankings have been made. Questions, Part 3.” know they won’t be eligible. Will If any funds appear to be available this change? after disbursement reporting for Yes. We disabled the Estimator for winter quarter and spring semester, If a student receives a half-time 2008-09 at the end of November OSAC may make a limited number (HT) disbursement for fall, is the 2008 and added a message that of new awards for spring. student’s OOG award limited to tells students that we have that HT amount for the rest of the exhausted all funds for 2008-09. For some students, a FAFSA year? We will have an Estimator available transaction with a CPS processing Yes. For the remainder of the 2008- for 2009-10 awards, but not until date during the last week of 09 award year, students are eligible we have more information about November negatively affected their to receive no more than they potential OOG funding levels for OOG eligibility but there was no received for Fall 2008, regardless of next year. time for the student or the school to whether they received a HT or full- correct the problem. Are such time (FT) disbursement or their If a school inadvertently disburses students out of luck? enrollment status changes later in an amount that is less than what Not necessarily. On a case-by -case the year. Essentially, the HT award the student should have received basis, OSAC will review each amount received in Fall becomes for Fall, can the school correct the situation and determine whether or the student’s authorized amount for mistake and restore the original not to approve the disbursement. the year. disbursement amount for Fall and for the remainder of the year? Can schools still submit Since OSAC has suspended No. Regardless of whether the professional judgment (PJ) or processing of all new OOG awards, reduced award amount was due to reload-and-lock (RnL) requests? effective 12/1/08, does this mean student error or school error, the What about PJ and RnL requests that OSAC will be able to avoid amount the student received for submitted at the end of November? reducing OOG awards later this Fall 2008 is the maximum amount Yes. We honored PJ and RnL academic year? that the student is eligible to receive requests that were in the queue as No. We may still have to reduce for the remainder of the 2008-09 of 12/1/08 because OSAC was winter and spring awards. Even academic year. responsible for resulting with the suspension of new awards disbursement delays. We can still on/after 12/1/08, the total number Many schools made fall disburse- honor requests that lock a student’s of Fall 2008 OOG recipients ments at one amount, only to see current authorized award amount, exceeded original projections for students’ award amounts reduced but we can no longer approve any the entire year by more than 4,000 after the first disbursement due to requests that increase a student’s (34,032 total recipients were adjustments after verification, etc. award. Thus, the only RnL requests projected; schools reported fall Do schools have to return the we can honor now are for the disbursements to 38,500 students). difference between the higher fall current transaction on which a After state-mandated reductions award and the student’s current current award is based, a prior and projected decreases in available award amount? Will the student’s transaction that retains the current Lottery proceeds, OSAC will have award for later terms (spring award, or a prior transaction that less than $72 million in available semester; winter and spring reduces the award. funds for the entire year. Although quarter) be at the same amount as this would have been sufficient to the fall disbursement or at the new serve 34,032, as originally lower amount? projected, more than 38,500 All awards after Fall should be students have already received Fall disbursed at the new lower 2008 disbursements. authorized amount.

Page | 5 VP Report: Community Colleges by Kevin Multop, Central Oregon Community College

A couple of years ago, I got the I would like to share a couple of the Out of all of the applicants this opportunity to take on the stories I have encountered this year year, however, there is one management of our emergency in awarding these emergency funds applicant’s story that is the most fund. It’s a pot of money specifically as a reminder of what some of our heartbreaking. A student and designed to help students who find students are up against. Take Sara mother of four wrote, “The day themselves in unexpected financial (not her real name), for example, before Thanksgiving my entire trouble. As you can imagine, the who wrote in her application, “One world shattered. Without any requests for help this aid year have week after our apt fire, my dad had warning, my husband committed been off the charts and due to lack a heart attack…as I am typing this suicide.” Amazingly, this student of funds, unfortunately, we are letter, mom is battling her cancer… was able to complete the term. unable to fully assist all of these she probably won’t be here for Her determination surfaced in her needy students. Christmas.” This student is also a application when she stated, “My single mother of five who would world doesn’t stop for my tragedy.” As the Director of Financial Aid at love to be a nurse someday. Central Oregon Community With so many students out there… College, I spend most of my work The downturn in the economy has on our campuses… in our offices day crunching numbers, evaluating taken its toll on our students, with every day… I want to add a word of processes, attending meetings and many losing jobs or getting their encouragement that your efforts other stuff that usually doesn’t work hours cut back. One applicant, make a difference, and not to just a involve much “face-time” with a young man who works close to the number or simply a file, but to a students. My work on the college at a BBQ restaurant, wrote, person that depends on the help emergency fund, however, brings “My roommate moved out about you provide to make college a me back to the stark reality of why I three months ago and I have to pay reality. have a job in the first place. Many the whole rent… This I can’t afford people really do need the help of especially because they cut back on the Financial Aid Office to achieve my hours at work due to the their college dream. slowdown in the economy.”

Page | 6 Financial Literacy: Is It Hip To Be Cheap In 2009? by Jeff Southard, ECMC

Economic crisis… layoff worries… outreach efforts to help with campus. The program profiled some increased debt. In the financial aid financial literacy education. Send different approaches to getting this world, we’ve been talking about this out a question on your school important information out to stuff for years. Now, it seems that listserv or check in with student students. The handouts and these basic concerns we’ve all dealt government, housing and career presentation are posted on the with are on everyone’s list of services to see if they are currently “webinar” section of the NASFAA concerns. More and more, basic trying to reach students. They may site and also includes some money management tools are vital also have the expertise to assist you resources and sample curriculum. to the overall financial well-being of in getting financial literacy students during these difficult information to your students. Any How can you measure success? Any economic times. financial literacy program with hope sustainable program is built with for success generally includes ways to measure success. Many students start college lacking partnering with other areas of your Evaluations and surveys can be the most basic foundation in college or university. helpful to provide feedback on the successful money management value of your materials and techniques. Couple that with Who can you partner with? Every presentations. Some colleges also increased independence and the campus is different. Whether you track their default and retention potential for credit card pitfalls and target in classroom efforts or rates to help show the value of it’s no wonder that financial literacy voluntary events, the key is financial literacy education. education is a priority on campuses collaboration. It may be through today. If you’re concerned about the partnering with residence life or the No matter what you choose to do, way your students handle their enrollment management folks or the important thing is to start. finances, providing some money even working with professors to give Resolve to offer a workshop on management tools may help them to students extra credit for accessing money management this semester avoid some of the money financial literacy education. or to get on the agenda during fall emergencies that often stand in the Consider also the possibility of orientation. Your students will way of successfully completing their bringing experts in to talk with your appreciate your efforts and be on educational path. students. Lenders, guarantors and the road to financial wellness. community outreach oriented What’s happening on campus right agencies often have financial now? You may think that you’re at literacy resources that are ready to square one on financial literacy go, so there’s no need to reinvent efforts. There’s no need to panic if the wheel in your efforts. you are, but first do some investigation. Someone or some NASFAA recently hosted a webinar department may already be doing on financial literacy outreach on

continued from page 4 Save The Date! Community College. Kathy presented a concise overview by Ted Malone and Colleen MacDonald, 2009 of the many changes in HERA and provided the WASFAA Conference Registration Co-chairs attendees an easy reference sheet. Registration is open for the 2009 “BIG Wild 40” One highlight of the day that was a great surprise to the WASFAA Conference, which is being held April attendees is each had a personally written note from 26-28, 2009 in the heart of downtown Anchorage, their supervisors. Alaska.

The workshop was well received with outstanding To register, go to www.wasfaa.org, first click on ratings. The planning committee deemed the workshop Conferences, and then click on REGISTER NOW. a complete success judging from the evaluations. With Reservations for the conference hotel, the Hilton 5.0 being a perfect score, the average of the day's events Anchorage, also are available. The conference room came to 4.76. Comments on the form included rate is valid from April 21 through May 1, 2009. statements like,"Best ever, I've been coming for the past 8 years!" and "Really good material" and "Loved the See you in Anchorage!!! note from my boss!"

Page | 7 Member Profile: Donna Fossum

As President-elect Knowing what I do helps students an outstanding staff. They are of OASFAA, Donna succeed and reach their dreams of tremendous colleagues and help is prepared to lead graduating from college. make our office run smoothly. I our association could not do my job without the during its 42nd What case/student will you be support and dedication of the year. Donna is the most likely to remember for the WOU Financial Aid Office staff. Director of rest of your life? Financial Aid at Western Oregon There are several memorable How do you cope with stress on University, where she oversees the situations, but this is a fairly the job? federal, state and institutional recent case. I review all the SAP I try to get some exercise student aid programs. WOU petitions. I take a bit of time (walking/jogging or biking), enrolls 5,300 students, with making thoughtful written although it is hard to squeeze it in. approximately 67% of students responses to the petitions. Well, I like to watch movies, travel, eat receiving some type of financial there was one student whose out and spend time with family assistance, totaling over $35 petition I disapproved and and friends. I also like to laugh. million annually. instructed him to attend a term Laughter is a great tool to help “on his own” to make up for his with stress. deficiencies. He did as instructed, How long have you been in re-petitioned the following term Who has been the biggest financial aid? and I approved his petition with influence/mentor on your career? About 22 years. some words of congratulations I would have to say Sandy and encouragement. At one of my Mountain. She was the Assistant How did you get started in Director of Financial Aid at WOSC financial aid? when I was hired and she was After college, I was an elementary later promoted to Director. She school teacher for eight years. was an outstanding role model for After eight years of teaching, I “I would encourage me. I learned so much from her. decided I was ready for a change people to reach out Her financial aid knowledge was and got a job at the Oregon State deep. She demonstrated an out- Scholarship Commission (now to your fellow standing work ethic and strong OSAC). While at OSSC, I saw a job leadership. She was always for a financial aid counselor at administrators…” professional and she was very Western Oregon State College involved with OASFAA. Sandy (now Western Oregon University). was (and continues to be) very I applied, was hired and have been supportive of me over the years. here ever since March of 1989. Academic Affairs staff meetings, As a new financial aid director, I the Director of the Academic could always call her with What has your involvement been Advising and Learning Center questions and advice. She became with OASFAA so far? shared the story about this a good friend and we get together Over the years, I’ve tried to attend student with whom she was as time permits. as many training functions as working. He met with her and was possible. I always learn something excited and proud that his What is/was your favorite new and come back re-energized financial aid petition was volunteer experience? after the annual conference. I’ve approved. He said that I praised I think helping with College Goal gotten to know many outstanding his improvement and I even Oregon was one of my favorites. professionals over the years and signed the letter. I don’t know who I helped at the Grand Ronde site I’m impressed with their dedica- the student was, but it reinforced last year. Luhui and her colleagues tion to financial aid. Some of my with me that while we may have to did a good job coordinating the OASFAA volunteer activities make tough decisions, supporting event. The experience did not include: and challenging students and involve a lot of work on my part--- . Summer Drive-In Chair; providing positive feedback can just a commitment to several . Annual conference Co-chair; have an effect on students. hours on a Saturday. I believe that . Vice President for Public College Goal Oregon is a very easy Four-Year Schools; What is the most difficult aspect way for OASFAA members to give . Volunteer for OPB Financial of your job? back to the community. People Aid for College; It’s challenging at times to juggle filing their FAFSAs were very . Volunteer for College Goal the many responsibilities of the appreciative of the help that they Oregon; administration of aid programs, received. . OASFAA President-elect. the needs of the university, and the needs of the students. I must continued on page 10 What is the most rewarding part say that I am so fortunate to have of your job? Page | 4 Page | 8 OSAC Scholarship Update: 2009-2010 Application Process by Carrie Matsushita, Oregon Student Assistance Commission

The Oregon Student Assistance Commission (OSAC) . Students who file their application online and create a disbursed nearly $16 million in scholarships and grants secure eStudent profile receive the added benefits of for the 2007-08 academic year to Oregon graduating high confidentiality, ability to track scholarships, accept school seniors, college students, older adults returning to awards, and return the next year to update their school, part-time students, and individuals with specific application and apply for the next award season. training needs. 8,000 students submitted competitive Students without Internet access to complete the applications. As the program continues to grow, with eApp can request a paper application by contacting nearly 400 scholarship listings and 92% of applicants OSAC at 800-452-8807. filing online, OSAC changed the 2009-10 Scholarship . The new workbook is organized in four sections to publication from an application to the EApp Workbook. help students find scholarships by the high school The new publication provides an easy way to search for they attended; their academic interest, college major, scholarships, a worksheet to help students prepare their or career interests; personal situation (student information, and more online tools. parent, home-schooled, transfer students, veteran, etc.); employer or membership group; and donor or Highlights of the changes for 2009-2010: honor names. . With the “all-electronic” process for submitting the . For each scholarship listed, a reference tool bar of key common application online (eApp), students are no eligibility requirements is included (e.g., type of longer required to send OSAC a paper scholarship student - graduating high school senior, college application packet (hard copy). undergraduate, college graduate; GPA; whether . For the first time, students will be able to upload to FAFSA filing is required; college location, etc.). If the their eApp, scanned transcripts and other required tool bar includes the word “Web” or “XDoc” (extra documents such as extra essays, enabling students to document required), students can obtain additional submit their entire scholarship application packet information required of the scholarship by visiting online. Transcripts can also be transmitted to OSAC OSAC’s website at www.GetCollgeFunds.org. (from the student’s school) using the OSAC secure web portal or IDTS. continued on page 10

Page | 9 continued from page 8 The food and atmosphere are If you could change anything in our wonderful, and I like to support our industry, what would it be? What do you do when you are not local businesses. I would like to see an increase in the working? Federal Pell Grant Program and a I do the same things that I do to What was the last book you read? decrease in the smaller grant relieve stress. When I have time, I Well, when I’m not reading the programs. like to make hand-stamped cards. Federal Student Aid Handbook, I’ll Making the cards is a relaxing and pick up a paperback. The last book I Do you have any advice for your creative outlet for me. read was an Ann Rule book on true fellow financial aid crime stories. I was a Psychology administrators? What do you like about living in minor in graduate school and I’m I would encourage people to reach Oregon? intrigued by these stories. I wonder out to your fellow administrators, It is so beautiful. Summers are fun what would possess an individual to either as a mentor or a newer with good weather, concerts and do what he/she does in her stories. professional seeking the wisdom of time to be outdoors. I also like the If I need a distraction, her stories others. OASFAA is fortunate to have laid-back attitude of Oregonians. I provide a real break from financial so many incredible and was born in North Dakota and I’m aid. knowledgeable individuals who have glad that my parents moved to much to share with newer Oregon when I was a youngster—I Who is your personal hero? professionals. don’t think I’d enjoy those cold No doubt, my dad. He was the North Dakota winters. kindest, most loving and supportive If you were not in financial aid, father anyone could have. My dad what would you be doing now? What is the most unusual place that was positive, upbeat and had a good I’m not sure. Financial aid seems to you have traveled? sense of humor. He enjoyed life. He be a good fit for me, so I plan to stay Hmmm, I don’t know if this is liked talking with people whether in the profession. unusual, but in 1982 I went with my they were acquaintances or sister to see where my grand- strangers. I enjoy talking with parents lived in Norway. It was people, too, and now you know moving to see the house where my where I get that! My dad died in grandmother lived and the fjord she 2002 and I miss him dearly, but I walked up with the goats. We also am so grateful for the time I had saw the church where my with him and his influence on my grandfather was baptized and where life. my grandparents were married. We stayed with distant cousins, some of Pepsi or Coke drinker? whom we hadn’t met, and it was Coke Zero is my favorite. wonderful getting to know them. DL or FFELP? What is your favorite restaurant? Direct Loans. Right now, it’s a local restaurant in Independence called Ragin’ River.

continued from page 9

. The publication’s worksheet mirrors the online eApp and allows students to complete it before entering their data online to help minimize errors that can lead to applications being rejected. . New sort filters on the online eApp allow students to quickly find scholarships that match their interests. The comprehensive scholarship catalog features nearly 400 private scholarships at www.GetCollegeFunds.org. Searching and applying for these scholarships is free. Students are encouraged to check the online comprehensive scholarship catalog for new scholarships added after September 1. . OSAC offers an Early Bird application deadline of Monday, February 16 and a final deadline of Monday, March 2, 2009. Postmarks will not be considered. Applications received by the Early Bird deadline will receive early review by OSAC and, if information is incorrect or missing, the applicant will be notified by e-mail or text message and receive an opportunity to submit corrections by the final deadline of March 2. A common error includes incorrect transcripts. If no errors are found, the applicant will be entered into a drawing for a $500 Early Bird scholarship. To be considered for a scholarship award, OSAC must receive the student’s application and all required documents by the final deadline of March 2.

Persons with questions about the OSAC application process may call (800) 452-8807.

PagePage || 610 News from NASFAA: First Signs of an Approaching Storm - Looking Into the Future by Haley Chitty, National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).

NASFAA’s 2008-09 percent, three-quarters said they did Enrollment in community colleges National Chair and not expect any decrease in is up 8 percent this year by some University of matriculation. estimates. The increased enrollment Wyoming Financial in lower-cost institutions is Aid Director Dave “After being overwhelmed by piles stretching their budgets at the same Gruen sparked an of applications, many colleges had time that state budget cuts are interesting online to dig deep into their waiting lists to hitting public universities and conversation when he predicted in a fill their classes,” the report states. community colleges hard. This blog posting that the recent limits their ability to accommodate economic turmoil had sparked a The college admissions officers all applicants, and is creating fears tsunami that would soon crash on surveyed for the report cited the that lower-income and minority financial aid office shores. following factors for the reduced students will be pushed out of the matriculation rate: system as it is flooded with more In the Oct. 27, 2008 blog entry, qualified applicants and/or Gruen pointed to some indicators he . 76 percent said that changes in applicants with a greater ability to was witnessing on his campus that the financial situations of pay for tuition and fees. suggested an oncoming wave of parents and/or students was a students and families who would factor. At the same time, students are need financial assistance to . 64 percent said that more looking for more financial help. compensate for lost wages, students attending community About 56 percent of the admissions dwindling college savings, and lost colleges was a factor. officials surveyed said more or reduced home equity. . 58 percent said that a decline in students than usual have come to home values was a factor. financial-aid offices this fall to work Financial aid administrators posted . Half said that the availability of out new payment arrangements. responses to the blog entry student loans was a factor. reporting a variety of experiences. . 76 percent said that more Unfortunately, institutions are Some corroborated Gruen’s fears aggressive financial-aid offers having a tough time finding the with stories of increasing need and from key competitors was a money to help these students. aid eligibility among students and factor. Among the colleges that reported families while others reported no . 60 percent said that “summer more financial aid requests, only 61 indications that the economy was melt,” or students who put percent said they could meet affecting those they served. down deposits but did not students’ needs. More than 50 matriculate was a factor. percent of those surveyed planned Looking back, it seems that Gruen’s to raise funds for additional somewhat dire predictions were well Four of the six reasons cited can be scholarships, 12 percent planned to founded. As the economic downturn attributed directly to the use more funds from endowments spreads it is having a negative floundering economy. The report for financial aid, and 9 percent impact on every sector of the U.S. details other impacts that the planned to create new loan economy, including families’ ability economy is having on students and programs to make more credit to pay for college and institutions’ families, including: available to families. and states’ ability to provide financial aid. . Students increasingly reluctant As Gruen predicted in his blog to travel far from home to entry, survey respondents expected Documenting Troubling attend college. things to get worse before they get Trends . Families less likely to want to better. take on student-loan debt. A recent report by the Chronicle of . Students applying to more A Silver Lining? Higher Education’s new research colleges, hoping to leverage service illustrates the challenges them against one another to get If the past is any indication, the U.S. these trends are creating for larger offers of financial aid. traditionally responds positively to students, families, and higher . Students trading down - crisis and challenges. It tends to education institutions. The report, looking more seriously at public bring the best out of people and “Financial Uncertainty and the universities instead of pricey gives the nation an opportunity to Admissions Class of Fall 2008,” private colleges. rethink fundamental assumptions found that nearly 80 percent of and practices that have led to the institutions had more applicants in These trends strain lower-cost current crisis. 2008, but 46 percent of institutions colleges like state universities and had fewer students actually attend community colleges, which are continued on page 12 after being accepted. Among the 46 experiencing an enrollment boom. Page | 117 continued from page 11 On the OASFAA Calendar “Perhaps this will turn out to be a good thing in the end,” wrote one colleague in response to Gruen’s blog post. Jan 14 OASFAA FA101 Workshop “College tuition was rising at an unreasonable rate and Jan 22 OPB Night students continued to attend schools they could not afford Jan 24 College Goal Oregon and continued to borrow money they could not pay back. Feb 1 Executive Council Meeting Much like the housing market, we all will be forced to Feb 1-3 Annual Conference make better decisions and find another way to pay for college besides borrowing out of control.”

Beyond the short-term challenges facing higher education On the Lighter Side and financial aid, the U.S. faces larger challenges of educating the future workforce and leaders.

Demographics dictate that tomorrow’s leaders will come from low-income and minority backgrounds, the very population that is currently underserved by higher education. The current crisis offers an opportunity to retool the system to better meet these long-term goals.

NASFAA’s National Conversation Initiative will provide important insight into how the financial aid system can be redesigned to meet America’s future needs. NASFAA encourages you to get involved to ensure that we make the most of the current crisis/opportunity and that the initiative has a positive and long-lasting impact on the future direction of the financial aid programs.

Resources: . National Conversation Initiative Web site: nasfaa.org/redesign/nci/ncicenter.html . NASFAA National Chair Blog: nasfaachair.org/blog/ Share your amusing or surprising financial aid anecdotes . Chronicle Report: with people who understand. To protect the innocent, we research.chronicle.com/reports.html?utm_source=at will not publish the names of contributors or their &utm_medium=en institutions! Simply email: [email protected]

In Closing… Farewell to a Friend by Judy Saling, University of Oregon

Our financial aid community has lost a shining star. Paul Carlile, Assistant Director at University of Oregon, passed away unexpectedly on January 15, 2009.

Paul was an integral part of our university. He was in charge of Outreach and expanded that program to wonderful heights. He went beyond parent nights to presenting with the Business Office during our IntroDucktions for new students—if Paul said it, parents believed it! Fortunately for all, his message was true.

He designed and taught a for-credit class in Financial Literacy, he worked with migrant families in Salem not only to help them learn about financial aid, but also to encourage them to think of college for their students, how to pick a college, what courses to take in high school, and how to apply for a scholarship. He was there until his last night giving them guidance.

Paul was an avid bicyclist and participated in many long—and grueling—expeditions with friends. He was a world traveler and delighted in recycling and educating us all on ways to save this planet.

The University has set up a Memorial Gift Account to begin a scholarship in Paul’s memory , which will be awarded to a first generation college student from Oregon with financial need. For more information, contact me ([email protected]).

Paul offered us so much, and still had much to give. He was always thinking into the future. He is so missed. Page | 12