Association Update - MASFAA President

JUNE 2026

As summer is underway, I want to take a moment to thank the many volunteers who continue to make MASFAA such a strong and vibrant association. A tremendous amount of planning and work went into the MASFAA Summer Institute & Leadership Symposium this month, and I am grateful for the dedication of everyone helping create meaningful opportunities for learning, leadership development, and connection.

Mini-MASFAA is back my friends! Are you ready?!  Empowering Expertise - AI as a FINAID PARTNER! During the week of July 20th, and for the low rate of $50, your entire membership roster can attend sessions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can impact our work as financial aid professionals.  You will gain a foundational understanding and get the most updated information from the NASFAA AI Taskforce that is working on this important topic.  

Our Professional Development and Advocacy Committee has also been crushing it with the MASFAA Matters Webinars to help us navigate the ever-changing times and continue to listen, learn and grow as professionals.  Be sure to check out upcoming June webinars:  June 11th - Graduate Aid Network; June 18th - Combining Mission & Data; June 24th - Lunch & Learn - Private Lenders/Processing.  Keep an eye out for reminder emails and check out the MASFAA Matters Webinars web page under training for more information! 

I also am excited about and enjoyed attending the Pathways Committee first book club discussion for the Long Game, by Dorie Clark.  So many great takeaways and discussions and really reinforced the power of MASFAA connection!  I hope more people will consider joining us for the second book, We Are All Weird by Seth Godin.

I know many of us are navigating significant challenges with all the federal changes. While the work can be demanding, I am continually inspired by the resilience, collaboration, and commitment of our members.  Thank you for all you do to support students and families each day - and also all that you do to support your fellow financial aid colleagues.  This profession is special, and we can do all things together.  Together, we continue to demonstrate that when and where we gather - greatness truly does happen. 

Keep fighting the good fight!

Emily Haynam

2025–26 MASFAA President