It took nothing more than a beautiful, June day in the Fens to make a group of roughly 80 aid administrators temporarily forget how our worlds have been turned upside over the past few years. For this day all the tense listserv battles, fears of workforce reductions, and uncertainty regarding the student loan industry were set aside in an effort to celebrate the accomplishments of the association’s 40th year.

Current MASFAA President, Gail Holt, provided a wonderful welcome and introduction for the keynote speaker, Dr. Bridget Terry Long. Dr. Long is a Professor of Education and Economics at Harvard and she provided some insight into a study she’s conducting regarding postsecondary access. The study revolves around determining who makes up the underserved student population, what the barriers to access and success are, and what some possible solutions may be. In her presentation, Dr. Long noted how it was possible that the Pell grant program was no longer effective and how perhaps the FAFSA was too complex. I must admit, it was very refreshing to hear how many of the issues aid administrators have pontificated over for years were finally transcending beyond our own anecdotal data. They study may end up being a much needed catalyst for change within the financial aid process we’ve all grown accustomed to. However, while Dr. Long was able illustrate the necessity for such change she stressed that our roles in the federal aid program remain of the utmost importance.

After the presentation was over Gail returned to the podium to figuratively and literally pass the gavel onto the incoming president, Christine McGuire. As they exchanged jokes and examples of how each has influenced the other’s career I was reminded of the camaraderie that the association fosters. That solidarity was further exemplified when all the MASFAA committee volunteers were recognized for their hard work this year. Despite all challenges we face with our daily responsibilities many of us still make the time to reciprocate the support we and our peers receive from the association. Ultimately we’re just a group of hard working individuals whose primary motivation is helping students secures better lives.

So in addition to receiving a day out of the office and a temporary relief from all the industry’s ills, I was reminded of why I have chosen to remain in this field. I am certain that the upcoming year will present all sorts of new challenges and rewards. However, I am even more assured that I will continue to receive the support of the association and my colleagues throughout Massachusetts.

Please click here for event photos.