OASFAA stands with WASFAA regarding our continued commitment to advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in our financial aid communities. Read WASFAA’s Statement regarding the US Supreme Court’s Decision on race-conscious admission policies.

A Letter from the President

Dear OASFAA Members & Friends,

Ten years ago, I joined the Oregon financial aid community and got my first taste of involvement with OASFAA. To say this organization has played a role in my personal and professional life would be a massive understatement; through OASFAA I have honed my skills as a financial aid administrator, grown professionally, and found lasting friendships and trusted mentors. Our community’s commitment to helping students achieve their higher education goals, and supporting those folks who are doing the work, is a lifeline for many across the state. 

The last five years have brought numerous challenges to our communities; from a global pandemic to a divisive and contentious political landscape across our nation, it has taken a toll on folks in our profession. We have seen colleagues make the decision to leave financial aid, whether in retirement or to shift to a different field altogether, and have felt the overwhelming increase in administrative burden being placed upon our offices, often with little additional resources to accomplish. Through it all, I hope your OASFAA connections have helped you find solace in the chaos, humor in the dark places, and the strength to press on in this important work. 

It is such an honor to represent OASFAA and to build upon the 57-year legacy that precedes my time as president. I hope that, together, we continue to expand our community and the support we all need to remain steadfast in our work. Together we are stronger than ever, and our collective resilience will bring us through this season of challenge.

Debbie O’Dea, 2025-2026 OASFAA President