HESC Loan Symposium a Success

Jim Hanley

HESC’s fourth annual Loan Symposium was an event to remember.

Together for two days, September 17 and 18 in Saratoga Springs, symposium attendees found themselves engaged by an array of industry professionals.

Among the highlights was a panel discussion featuring Brett Leif, President of NCHELP, and Dr. Philip Day, President of NASFAA. They led a thoughtful discussion on public policy, the rapid changes affecting the student loan environment, and the need for a unified student loan strategy for the benefit of students. Their session delved deeply into the latest developments in Washington, as well as the challenges our industry is facing and the strategies they’re pursuing to overcome those challenges. We were privileged to have such distinguished leaders in the student loan industry at this meeting.

We were honored, also, to hear the views of several other accomplished industry professionals over the two-day-long symposium. Tony Goodwin, M&T Bank, and Craig Anderson, Chase Education Finance, discussed the state of the student loan industry; Sam Veeder, Scannell & Kurz, Inc., discussed strategies for overcoming financial aid challenges; Ian Mortimer, Insidertrack, Inc., presented a market driven financial aid model; and Jennifer Trauman, Access Group, gave clarity to two new federal loan repayment programs.

All of the presenters offered their unique and informed perspectives on the state of our changing industry, sparking lively question and answer exchanges throughout the symposium.

Judging from nearly 200 survey responses, the attendees appreciated the time, energy and creativity of all the sessions. Following is a small sampling of their comments:

"Great Job. Timely program. Well worth the time away from the office."

"Another successful and helpful symposium."

"It is a great opportunity to learn and interact with other financial aid professionals."

Our appreciation goes out to all who participated in making this year’s symposium such a success.