NASFAA Members Reflect on Recent Advocacy Pipeline Meetings
Nalia Medina, Assistant Director of Government Relations
In May, NASFAA hosted a virtual Advocacy Pipeline with members from Idaho and Colorado.
The participants – Daniel Carlos from the University of Idaho, Jessica Brejc Ibrahim from Naropa University, and Karla Nash from the Colorado Community College System – met with Reps. Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), and Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), as well as Sens. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.).
During the meetings, pipeline participants highlighted the importance of eliminating student loan origination fees and referenced the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act, a bill supported by NASFAA. They discussed reducing administrative burden and simplifying the Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) process. The group also shared some concerns regarding the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), including Schedule of Reductions (SOR).
Read on to learn about the Advocacy Pipeline experience, and fill out this interest form if you would like to participate in an Advocacy Pipeline event.
Jessica Brejc Ibrahim: Director of Student Financial Services & VA Certifying Official, Naropa University Participating in NASFAA’s Advocacy Pipeline was an extremely rewarding experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to use their voice to help highlight the impact of key issues on students and shape the ever-shifting policy landscape of higher education. The whole process was very smooth with Nalia helping to ensure that the logistics were managed well, so my peers and I could focus on addressing important issues with the congressional representatives. We focused on the elimination of origination fees, impacts from the new Schedule of Reductions (SOR), and the complexities associated with Return of Title IV funds (R2T4). I deeply valued the care and commitment my peers dedicated to discussing these issues and truly felt the conversation will help inform policy decisions to improve student access to higher education.
Karla Nash: System Director of Financial Aid, Colorado Community College System
Have you ever avoided an opportunity because fear—or the thought of adding one more commitment—made it feel too overwhelming? That was exactly how I felt about the NASFAA Advocacy Pipeline.
For years, I have listened to many of you advocate so powerfully for our students. I have admired your knowledge, your confidence, and the way you communicate on behalf of those we serve. At the same time, I quietly thought, there is no way I’m going to let everyone see how much I still have to learn. But then it occurred to me: maybe it was my turn.
When there was a need for someone to fill in, I volunteered. This was not easy for me—but I have to say it: I was wrong. I was wrong to assume I wasn’t ready, and I was wrong to let fear make the decision for me.
Advocacy is about believing in something and speaking up. No, we do not know everything, and we do not have all the answers. But that is not the expectation when volunteering for the NASFAA Advocacy Pipeline. What you will gain from the experience is a renewed sense of confidence and a new team of peers.
As for adding another commitment to an already overwhelming schedule, the preparation time is minimal. The groups are well organized, and the appointments with policymakers are scheduled for you. During the initial meetings, you are asked to share your top concerns, and the NASFAA team provides your group with an agenda and resources tailored to those issues.
Those reference materials are simply tools. You bring your own experience, your own perspective, and your own voice. The meetings are short, focused, and straightforward.
While I encourage you to participate in in-person Hill meetings whenever possible, this is the next best advocacy opportunity. Give yourself a day of renewed enthusiasm for our work. Volunteer for the NASFAA Advocacy Pipeline!
Please fill out this interest form if you would like to participate in a future Advocacy Pipeline event!
Publication Date: 7/22/2026
Joseph D | 7/22/2026 11:18:35 AM
Amazing work, Jessica and Karla! Thank you for advocating, and for representing our state in these important spaces!
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