Statements of Candidacy for Treasurer-Elect of SCASFAA

Melanie L. Gillespie 

Statement of Candidacy:

I guess some people would call me a product of my environment! I am delighted to have spent the majority of my career in the Financial Aid Office of Southern Wesleyan University. I have spent the last 14 plus years learning how I can help students achieve the same dream I had; getting a college education with the least amount of debt possible. Upon entering the profession I quickly realized the value of colleagues and organizations such as SCASFAA. The sense of “family” in the financial aid profession is a treasured commodity as we all seek to serve students in the most efficient way. It is indeed a privilege to be nominated to serve such a wonderful organization. I appreciate the opportunity to be considered as your SCASFAA Treasurer. If elected, I will gladly serve the profession with the same dedication I give to my students.  

Work Experience:

Data Entry Processor—Southern Wesleyan University, 1998-2000

Compliance Coordinator—Southern Wesleyan University, 2000-2007

Assistant Director of Financial Aid—Southern Wesleyan University, 2007-2012

Director of Financial Aid—Southern Wesleyan University, 2012-present

Education:

B.S. in Business Administration--Southern Wesleyan University, Central S.C., 2005

Masters of Management-- Southern Wesleyan University, Central S.C., 2008

Professional Involvement:

SCASFAA:

-Counselor Relations Committee, 2006

-Member Since 2000

 

SASFAA:

-Membership Committee Representative for South Carolina, 2009 and 2011

-Member Since 2005

 

 

 

April Baur

 

Statement of Candidacy:

I am very humbled and honored to have been nominated for SCASFAA’s Treasurer-Elect.  If elected, I promise to serve SCASFAA with the upmost integrity and attention to detail.

My journey in higher education began in college as a work-study student in the Admissions Office which turned into a full-time Admissions Counselor position immediately after graduation.  After 2 years, I made the move to the Financial Aid Office where I have been able to connect with my “nerdy” side and love of spreadsheets. More importantly, I have been able to connect with students and families who need assistance.  Being a first-generation college student, I understand how important the financial aid process is for students.  I have a passion for students and education. I recently attended a session at a conference (SASFAA) where the presenters stated that no one chooses financial aid as a profession, but that one does choose to remain in the profession.  I choose to stay in the profession because of the students.  I want to become more involved in professional organizations in order to serve others and to make a difference for students and the future of education.

I am currently working on my Masters of Education in Higher Education at Columbia College and will graduate in August 2013.  I’ve been married for 2 years.  My husband and I live in Greer and we have an 8 month old Jack Russell mix named, Ruth.