Professional Development &Training Committee co-chair Jason Burke started the day by welcoming the attendees. He explained that the Emerging Leaders Training is a new opportunity and an exciting chance for professionals in the financial aid field to develop themselves into the future leaders in their institutions and within the MASFAA organization. He also emphasized how it would be a great venue to connect and learn from one’s peers as well as existing leaders within the organization. Jason recommended that everyone be proactive by participating in the day as well as to get involved with the MASFAA organization. Joining a MASFAA committee was suggested many times through out the day as a good first step towards leadership. The "Emerging Leaders Handbook" was distributed to each individual. These binders included the handout materials covered throughout the day and additional resources for attendees to take advantage of between workshops. Space was also left for future materials that will be provided during the next session and forwarded to participants through out the year. The goal of the handbook is to create an ongoing resource for emerging leaders. MASFAA was also kind enough to provide for each nominee a copy of the book, Principle Centered Leadership by Stephen R. Covey, the author of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. It was suggested that the Emerging Leaders read and discuss the book amongst themselves between the two workshops. Participants have also been added to a group email distribution exclusive for them. They are encouraged to contact each other through out the year and into the future, the PD&T Committee wanted to stress the fact that we are often each others best resource.

The first session was "An Introduction to MASFAA" by MASFAA President Sherri Avery from Brandeis University. Sherri did an excellent job explaining MASFAA’s role, the many committees that make it up, and the benefits of involvement with the organization.

The second session "Principles of Leadership and Leadership Styles" was presented by John Hogan, a consultant from Monitor Group. John was very enthusiastic and energized the group with a high level philosophical discussion of leadership as well as down to earth real life examples. The five types of leadership styles he highlighted are Performance Leaders (an achiever), Visionary Leaders (a motivator), Citizen Leaders (an advocate), Wisdom Leaders (an elder), and Exit Leaders (a questioner). He discussed the characteristics of each style and emphasized the need for all types. A "Leadership Pathway Preference Scale" was distributed and small groups were created based around people’s Leadership Pathway preference. The group activities were a great opportunity for participants to interact and expand their understanding of themselves and each other.

The third session was on Management presented by MASFAA Past-President Cathy Kedski of Bridgewater State College. This informational session included many key elements about how the leadership "rubber" hits the financial aid office "road" through management. The content applied directly to the current and future positions of the audience. Cathy did a masterful job of customizing her content for her audience and her materials included in the handbook will be a great resource for future use.

The final portion of the day was a panel discussion, which allowed for Question and Answer with members of MASFAA’s executive counsel. The panel was made up of Cathy Kedski, Sherri Avery, and President-Elect Tony Erwin from Northeastern University. The panel answered a few questions they had received in advance and then opened up the discussion to the Emerging Leaders. The audience’s excellent questions showcased their high level of interest and attention. The panels’ participation was greatly appreciated and ended the day on an excellent note. All in attendance are excitedly anticipating the next Emerging Leaders Workshop scheduled for May 22nd.