A Letter From Incoming NASFAA President & CEO Melanie Storey
Dear NASFAA Members,
I am thrilled and honored to write to you as the incoming President and CEO. I distinctly remember attending my first NASFAA National Conference in the early years of my career. I have been inspired ever since by your unwavering commitment, perseverance, and dedication to ensuring that all students have access to the financial resources they need to pursue a postsecondary education.
For many of you, working in financial aid is not just a profession — it is a calling. You are stewards of program integrity and architects of opportunity while managing complex regulations and an ever-changing professional landscape. The last few years have brought unimaginable levels of uncertainty. From navigating the Covid and FAFSA crises to juggling shifting policy priorities and evolving student needs, you continued to deliver on providing support and guidance to anxious students and families. You indeed wear many hats. Through it all, you have remained steadfast in your mission. For that, I want to express my deepest gratitude and personally commit to telling the story of your success and dedication every day.
At the Office of Federal Student Aid, I saw firsthand the complexities of federal policy development and the impact of subsequent implementation. That experience has given me a deeper understanding of the challenges you face in delivering on the promise of financial aid. I am fully committed to ensuring that NASFAA continues to be a strong advocate for you and makes your voice heard.
I will work tirelessly to bridge the gap between decision-makers and you, who are on the front lines of serving students and families.
As we look ahead, NASFAA will continue to support you with the tools, knowledge, and resources you need. Our priorities will include:
- Advocating for You – NASFAA will be your advocate in Washington, working for policy changes that streamline processes, reduce administrative burden, and expand access to education for all students.
- Strengthening Professional Development – NASFAA will continue offering unparalleled training opportunities, certifications, and networking resources, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge needed to thrive.
- Building Community – Financial aid professionals do not work alone. NASFAA will strengthen our community by fostering collaboration, encouraging dialogue, and ensuring you always have a place to turn for support and guidance.
- Charting Our Future – Change and challenge are inevitable. NASFAA will continue to be forward-focused, broadening professional pathways, embracing new technology, and working together to find creative solutions to delivering opportunity.
I look forward to working together to navigate the challenges and maximize the opportunities ahead. Your work changes lives, and NASFAA is here to champion your efforts every step of the way.
Thank you for all that you do.
With appreciation,
Melanie Storey
Incoming NASFAA President & CEO
Publication Date: 3/25/2025
Becky T | 3/25/2025 7:51:55 PM
Congratulations, Melanie! I'm so excited for you and for us NASFAA members!
Morgan D | 3/25/2025 11:37:04 AM
This is amazing news. NASFAA will no doubt find a great advocate in Melanie, for FAAs and students alike. Well done, Board members! Solid pick.
Jennifer H | 3/25/2025 11:32:47 AM
We all want to keep loving FA, and I hope you can help us do that. Congratulations! Looking forward to the future.
Ashley B | 3/25/2025 11:28:11 AM
So glad to have such a qualified person added to the team! :)
Cheryl H | 3/25/2025 10:43:25 AM
congrats
Amanda G | 3/25/2025 10:24:50 AM
This is the best news for FAA's in years! Congratulations, Melanie!!
David S | 3/25/2025 10:4:50 AM
Congratulations Melanie, and thank you for stepping up to the plate at a time when the financial aid community and the students we serve need a strong advocate with a vision. I look forward to your leadership of our association as we all navigate this very uncertain landscape together.
I also thank the Board and the search committee for their hard work in filling this position with such a well qualified professional.
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