Professional Development

About

WHO WE ARE: A collective group of financial aid professionals with a common goal to provide comprehensive training and development opportunities to the association through multiple options.  This supports WASFAA's mission to promote and provide quality administration of financial aid programs in Wisconsin's postsecondary institutions.

WHAT WE DO: Each year we conduct a series of training and professional development opportunities ranging from drive-in workshops, new professionals sessions, and leadership trainings that cater to the needs of financial aid administrators and office professionals. 

For a detailed list of our committee's program offerings see below.

• A comprehensive fundamentals training that outlines core topics in financial aid.  This institute uses core materials from NASFAA to target topics that are essential for new professionals or those that need a refresher about the financial aid field.  This training is offered during the Fall and/or Spring WASFAA Conferences.   A nominal fee is charged to supplement the cost for materials.  Registration information is available when the WASFAA Conference registration opens.
  
• WASFAA is also exploring additional development and training opportunities.  We are excited to announce the rebranding of the Office Professional Retreat to the Student Support Summit.  We are still in the initial planning stage but hope to provide more information to the Association in the near future.  The intent of the Summit is to bring a diverse group of higher education professionals together to discuss current trends, industry best practices and emerging innovative ideas within the financial aid community that could benefit the overall student experience at institutions.  Please stay tuned for more information. 
  
• A biennial program specifically designed to target and highlight upcoming financial aid professionals who have demonstrated leadership potential within their offices and in the association.  The participants within the WASFAA Leadership Retreat are nominated to participate in the program which focuses on developing leadership skills, change analysis, personality and other professional development opportunities.    
  
• All participants are asked for a 6-month commitment for the program.  Historically, leadership retreat graduates have advanced personally and professionally while becoming involved in the association by fulfilling roles like Committee Co-chairs, members of the Executive Board, or Presidents or WASFAA.  This opportunity is rewarding and strongly recommended for those who desire to be an aspiring leader in the future.