In honor of Thank Your Mentor Day on January 25, 2024, we asked NASFAA members to share messages of gratitude to the people who supported and guided their career in financial aid. Here are their submissions.

So many different financial aid professionals come to mind! But I wanted to honor Blake Tanner, the aid director at the University of Louisville. He hired me as a graduate assistant in my first financial aid job. He passed away in April 2020. I have so many wonderful memories of him, but mostly how he led by walking around, knew all about our families, and encouraged us to read regulations to learn. He was kind, tough, and knowledgeable, and he surrounded himself with amazing people. I miss him, and his encouragement. He would call me "kiddo" and always ended his emails with Cheers. We had the best Derby and Christmas parties! 

- Heather Boutell, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine 

Thank you, Laura Miller, for passing on your infinite knowledge to me. I am in awe of your knowledge and helpfulness. Thank you for always being there for me and being willing to answer any questions that I may have. I appreciate you beyond words.    

- Sarah Russell, Conemaugh School of Nursing & Allied Health Programs

When I began this career path 3 years ago, it was overwhelming and I found myself weighing the pros and cons of sticking it out. But I quickly realized that, for whatever reason, I actually felt engaged in my work and that what I was doing was important. I also felt like I belonged. If I stop to think about it, one of the big ""whatever reasons""  I stuck it out was definitely due to Danielle Hayden.

Danielle was kind, welcoming, patient, encouraging, and eager to share whatever knowledge she held. She went out of her way to check in on me, praise and celebrate my progress, and encourage me to get involved with our state and regional associations.

While she has moved on to bigger and better things (deservedly so), I will always be grateful that our professional paths crossed at the time they did. Thanks for everything, Danielle.  

- Russell Tragesser, Purdue University

I have had many mentors through the years.   But I think the first one that had a significant impact on me choosing a career in higher education is Dr. Madeline Allen. She was Vice President for Student Affairs at the first college where I worked. She retired in 1997 and is still thriving at age 88. One of the most meaningful things she taught me that I still try to do today -- handwritten notes and letters. In a digital age, we can easily lose the meaning that handwritten notes can send. She and I still often send each other handwritten cards, letters, and other updates even today. Thank you Madeline for the mentorship you provided me as a very young Student Affairs professional so many years ago!  (photo taken at Christmas 2021 when I stopped in for a visit).  

- Philip Hawkins, Columbus State University

I am fortunate enough that over the course of my 40 year career, I can point to many who have mentored me along the way, and I'm grateful for each of them.  But there was one mentor among financial aid professionals who stands above all others for me, and that was George Chin.  It was from George (despite us never working together) that I first learned the connection between what we do day to day in our offices and how financial aid is rooted in public policy that's designed to lift people who may otherwise be left behind. He taught me that what we do is social justice work...for me, that's what has made it a career and a calling rather than a job and a paycheck.  

Like everyone whose lives and careers he touched, I think about George often and wish he were still here...seems every time a real challenge comes before our profession some friends and I find ourselves asking ""what would George say about this?""  But my career simply would not have been the same had our paths not crossed, and for that I will forever be indebted to him.   

- David Sheridan, Columbia University in the City of NY School of International & Public Affairs

I’m truly grateful for the mentorship of Casie Triche. I have been fortunate to work in financial aid for almost 20 years, and she has been instrumental in guiding my career every step of the way.

Casie has always gone the extra mile with advice and encouragement, even outside work. Her belief in me has given me confidence, even during self-doubt. More than a mentor, she's a trusted friend I can always count on. Her faith in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation, inspiring me to expand my skills and reach my full potential. 

- Garrett Clement, Nicholls State University

There are two people I would like to thank. These two strong and empowered women welcomed me into the world of financial aid, and taught me everything I know.  Because of them I was able to find my forever job and enjoy what I do every step of the way. Not only did they support my growth, but they were also always there for me during times of stress, which is not rare in this field. I aspire to follow in their financial aid footsteps and become a great leader and director like them someday.

They are:  Sarah Kasabian-Larson/ Central Michigan University- Director of Financial Aid  and Michelle McNier/Mid Michigan College - Director of Financial Aid

- Megan Bahlke, Mid Michigan College

Thank you, Amy Hager from Moberly Area Community College!!! You have been a mentor not only to myself, but to every L.D.P. participant over the years! Thank you so much for the time you have invested in each of us, we appreciate you more than you will ever know!!    

- Hannah Masters, Cottey College

I am so grateful to have had terrific mentors who have guided me in my career development and have been inspirations to me as exemplary leaders in financial aid. My special thanks to Grace Bartini, Betsy Hicks, Michael Bennett, and Linda Dagradi. Because of their impact on me, I have volunteered to be a mentor for others. I apply the lessons I learned from each of them every day.    

- Daniel Barkowitz, University of Miami

I would like to thank Claire Roder for her unwavering support and guidance when she was our fearless Financial Aid Director from 2018-2022. Her mentorship was instrumental in shaping my career and fostering my professional growth. Her encouragement not only lifted me up during a challenging time but also empowered me to strive for excellence in my work and grew confidence in myself daily. She was truly a guiding light in my career and a positive impact on both my personal and professional life. Even after she left our department she would check in on me and  help me problem solve new issues I encountered. I am forever grateful that our paths had crossed. Now as I am the Director of Financial Aid, I find myself asking... What Would Claire Do (WWCD).

- Kim Yoder, Chippewa Valley Technical College

Ten years ago, I graduated from college and took a leap of faith by submitting an application to University of Idaho to work as a counselor. It was scary because it was 1,100 miles away from everything and everyone I had known.  However, after my first few weeks I knew I was in good company with my boss, Derek Moore (now Director at Union University in Tennessee).  

Thank you, Derek for guiding fresh-faced-financial-aid-counselor-me! Thank you for showing me how to lead with trust and integrity! Thank you for being you, and for helping to guide my development and focus my motivation! 

However you may feel about Andy Bernard in The Office, he summed it up perfectly: "I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days before you've left them."  

- Daniel Carlos, University of Idaho

Randi, I am very grateful for the time I get to work and learn alongside you. I admire your positive attitude, your ability to persuade, and your work ethic. Thank you, Randi Croyle, for believing in me and for your ongoing support of my professional and personal growth!    

- Daniel Carlos, University of Idaho

Susan Dickey and Victor Martinez sparked my love for financial aid and the profession at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The care and concern they demonstrated with students and families, while applying the regulations and policy, was balanced and thoughtful. It has influenced how I approach the work to this day more than 15 years later.  

- Clarice Merriman, Maricopa Community Colleges District

Cynthia Kennedy of Northwest University has been a rock for our department. She has over 15 years of experience in the field and is a huge part of how I went from a brand new, no prior experience Financial Aid Administrator to an Assistant Director of Training and Onboarding in 5 years. I sincerely could not be where I am today without her, and nor could any of the peers I've had the honor of training. Thank you, Cynthia! 

- Crista Greenwood, Northwest University

Janet Riis, you are a fabulous director, a huge asset to Carroll College, a strong advocate for our students, and a dynamic mentor.  Your perserverance, integrity, and loving nature are just a few of your exceptional qualities that continue to inspire me. Despite the overwhelming amount of work and the changes that occur daily, you help your staff reach their fullest potential, support the needs of our students, and extend yourself to other departments with a can-do attitude. I have been truly blessed to have you as a mentor in my life.

- Carol Will, Carroll College

Renee Besse, University of Nebraska-Kearney, welcomed me in to our state association and encouraged my involvement and passion for financial aid. She supported my path and because of her I moved into being involved on a regional and national level and steadfast in my decision to stay within the financial aid construct! I always know that I can pick up the phone and call her and if she doesn't know she will refer me to someone who can help me!

- Susan Collins, Southern New Hampshire University

Eric Weems,  M.Ed. - My boss, my friend, my business partner, my financial aid teammate. I grew up with you, learned from you, led with you. Without your guidance and direction, I would not be where I am today. I will always be grateful for what you shared. Thank you for all that you have given to me and so many others in this community.

- Jeanne Locarnini, Best Practice Solutions LLC

This is a photo of James V. Palumbo, (former Vice President of Student Development and FA Director) my friend, boss, and mentor at Brookdale Community College and my Associate Director Stephanie Fitzsimmons.  (the best mentors are above and alongside us!) Jim was a fearless student advocate who ALWAYS had my back, encouraged innovation, and brought out the best in everyone.  We laughed our way through 25 years together.  Jim taught me how to not take myself and financial aid too seriously and I always loved when he would shout "When did they change THAT!!!"  His mentoring was most impactful because it occurred at the Lincroft Inn, a popular tavern a block from our campus. We truly cared about one another and developed a pride that shaped my entire career.  THANK YOU, Jim.

- Michael Bennett, St. Petersburg College

Thanks, Lori Vedder, for always being a friend and mentor to myself and others in our profession. You always take the time to check in and ask about my work but also about my family and my life. You are caring, genuine, funny and fun-loving! Your leadership and dedication to "raising" the next generation of financial aid professionals is noticed and appreciated. Thank you for being an outstanding mentor!

- Heidi Carl, Purdue University

I am forever grateful to Ciel Senechal for providing me with stellar training and guidance. She is so terribly humble. However, her actions have had a ripple effect that is immeasurable. Writing thank you feels so inadequate to describe my gratitude for what she has done for me and countless students and families.

- Kimberly Legier, El Camino Community College