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This week on "Off The Cuff," Allie fills in for Justin and is joined by NASFAA Senior Policy Analyst Jill Desjean and NASFAA U Instructor David Tolman to discuss the latest news out of the Department of Education (ED) concerning verification waivers. David has the latest information members should be aware of and how ED’s temporary changes will impact financial aid offices, plus some “verification 101” tips for schools looking to stay in compliance. Jill then runs listeners through the ever-expanding web of decision-making the Biden administration is working through when it comes to potential student loan cancellation and some of the policy implications that will significantly impact how the relief could be administered. Hugh then joins in to update listeners on NASFAA’s comprehensive white paper examining the shortcomings of the student loan system.

While the White House and lawmakers continue to mull the idea of student loan forgiveness, a group of Republican senators led by Richard Burr (R-N.C.), ranking member of the chamber's education committee, on Wednesday introduced a bill that would prohibit President Joe Biden from canceling any amount of student loan debt. 

The Department of Education (ED) recently published an FAQ detailing the ways in which institutions can use funding provided by the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) to invest in evidence-based mental health support for students. The document highlights investments in specific resources. “If there is one thing I’ve heard while speaking with college students throughout the nation, it’s been the need for greater mental health supports on campus,” said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona. “We must make sure our colleges and universities have the tools and resources to help students, faculty, and staff heal from the grief, trauma, and anxiety they endured amid the pandemic.”

Thousands of student aid professionals from across the nation attend the NASFAA National Conference each year to teach, learn, network, and share best practices — and for the first time in several years, we're doing it in person! Don't miss your chance to grow professionally, and also enjoy seeing your colleagues again face-to-face. To celebrate, NASFAA has some special events planned, including NASFAA City Limits Live! on Monday evening, featuring live music, a silent disco, specialty drinks, lawn games, a caricature artist, magician, video games, and so much more. Be sure to register today to save your spot. We hope to see you in Austin next month!

Please join us in congratulating Candace Henry-Schroder, formerly the director of financial aid at Gogebic Community College, who is now the director of financial aid at Westshore Community College; and Caitlin White, who was promoted from senior counselor to assistant director of compliance and technical projects at Marshall University. Celebrate your own career developments by completing the "Movers and Shakers" form to share the news with your colleagues.

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