2008-2009SPRING 2009 ISSUE


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SWASFAA MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT

SWASFAA Membership
In these uncertain economic times, you may be forced to decide whether or not you should renew your SWASFAA Membership. You may be asked about the benefits of membership for your institution or organization. You may even be faced with deciding which ONE professional organization you will be a part of. Clearly, we hope that you will join and actively participate in the Southwest Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

What is SWASFAA?
SWASFAA is an organization dedicated to promoting the professional preparation, effectiveness, training, recognition and association of student financial aid administrators within the five state region of the southwest: Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. We exist to serve effectively the interests and needs of students, educational institutions, government agencies, and associate members through coordination of plans and programs pertinent to student financial aid, and to assist educational institutions, government agencies, foundations, and private and community organizations to promote and develop effective programs for student financial aid.

Why choose SWASFAA?
SWASFAA offers training opportunities for the development of both new and seasoned aid professionals. In addition to an annual conference, SWASFAA offers specialized programs such as Boot Camp and the Mid-Level Workshop. Training is centered on providing aid professionals with tools for effective program administration, communicating regulatory updates and how to administer them in your organization, creating opportunities to share best practices, and establishing a professional network.

Additionally, SWASFAA is an avenue for you to be represented and heard. The President and Past President of the Association are voting members of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Board and the SWASFAA Legislative Issues Committee is actively monitoring the proposed bills and enacted laws that directly impact what we do each and every day.

Who is SWASFAA?
SWASFAA is comprised of professionals from across Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas as well as other states. These professionals come from public and private schools, 2-year and 4-year institutions, lending institutions, student loan servicers, proprietary schools, guaranty and government agencies. SWASFAA truly is an inclusive resource.

How much does it cost to join?
$100.00 – Institutional Membership [1-3,000 students]
$150.00 – Institutional Membership [3,001-7,000 students]
$200.00 – Institutional Membership [7,001+ students]
$300.00 – Associate Membership (public/private agencies/organizations)
$  35.00 – Individual Membership (retirees, high school counselors)

The membership year runs from January 1 to December 31. Membership is based upon your organization, and multiple members are permitted per membership.

Are you ready to join/renew?
If so, all you need to do is visit the SWASFAA website at www.swasfaa.org. From Member Services, select Member Application. Scroll to the bottom of the page and use the selections under Application Option. Login to the system and follow the steps presented. (Note: Only one member from each institution/organization need renew membership. Please review/revise the list of individuals associated with your institution to assist us in keeping accurate records.)

Already a member?
We hope that you will encourage others from your institution or organization and beyond to join and take an active role in YOUR Association.

Questions?
Contact Nora Cargo, 2009 Membership Chair, at ncargo@tamu.edu or (979) 458-5310.


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