Executive Leadership Collective Frequently Asked Questions
The Executive Leadership Collective (ELC) is a premier experience designed for senior financial aid leaders seeking to engage at the highest levels of strategy, policy, and professional influence. More than a traditional professional development program, the ELC brings together a select cohort of decision-makers to explore the complex challenges shaping the future of student financial aid and higher education.
Through candid dialogue, direct engagement with key stakeholders, and sustained collaboration, the ELC creates space for leaders to step beyond day-to-day operations and focus on long-term impact. The following FAQs provide additional insight into the purpose, structure, and value of the ELC experience, and what makes it uniquely suited for today’s financial aid leaders.
What distinguishes the ELC from other professional development opportunities available to financial aid leaders today?
- The ELC is a cohort-based experience designed specifically for senior financial aid leaders and decision-makers.
- Provides a trusted, closed-door environment that allows for candid, strategic conversations on the most pressing issues facing the profession
- Direct engagement with influential stakeholders from Congress, federal agencies, and across higher education.
- A sustained experience that extends beyond a single event, fostering ongoing collaboration and relationship-building among peers.
- A focus on leadership at the intersection of ethics, institutional stability, and student aid policy, allowing conversation to be elevated beyond day-to-day operations.
What type of leader is the ELC designed for, and what makes someone a strong fit for this experience?
- The ELC is designed for experienced financial aid leaders who are responsible for setting strategy and overseeing the direction of their office (director level or above).
- Strong participants are those who bring a broad, strategic perspective and are interested in contributing to conversations that extend beyond their own institution.
- The program is best suited for leaders who are open to engaging in candid dialogue, sharing their experiences, and learning from peers in a collaborative environment.
How is ELC programming developed each year? How are topics determined and speakers prioritized?
- The ELC Task Force members are charged with shaping the programming each year.
- Programming is intentionally curated to reflect the most urgent and emerging issues impacting financial aid and higher education.
- Input from current and past participants plays a key role in shaping topics to ensure relevance and value.
- The program balances policy-focused discussions with broader leadership and strategic topics.
- Speakers are selected based on their ability to provide unique insight, influence, or perspective — particularly those shaping policy or leading innovation in the field.
- Flexibility is built into the program to address real-time developments and evolving challenges throughout the year.
For someone considering registering, what is the most compelling reason to participate?
- The opportunity to engage in meaningful, high-level dialogue with peers who share similar leadership responsibilities and challenges.
- Access to perspectives and insights that are not typically available in more traditional conference settings.
- The ability to step away from day-to-day demands and focus on strategic thinking and long-term leadership.
- The strength of the network and the opportunity to build lasting relationships with other senior leaders across institutions.
- The chance to contribute to and help shape the future direction of the financial aid profession.
How can I get involved in the ELC?
- Registration for the upcoming cohort opens each May and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis; space is limited and typically sells out quickly.
- Eligibility requirements include:
- Current NASFAA membership
- Serving as a principal within the financial aid office (director level or above)
- Recommended: At least seven years of leadership experience
- The $4,000 registration fee includes:
- An in-person kick-off event in Washington, D.C. in September
- Registration for both the NASFAA Leadership & Legislative Conference & Expo and the NASFAA National Conference
- A series of virtual programs throughout the year
- Travel is not included, and online payment in full is required at the time of registration.
Hear what past ELC members have to say about their participation in the collective. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our team.
