We hope you will join us for our Summer Virtual Training Summit! This free event is comprised of four different virtual sessions, held over the first week of June. See below for a tentative list of sessions & featured speakers.
Once you complete registration, the Zoom meeting link will be included in the additional details. That link will work for every session, so be sure to add the sessions you wish to attend to your calendar!
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 10:00AM
Artificial Intelligence & the Evolution of Higher Education
Presenter: Wes Fondren, Ph.D., Associate Provost for AI, Academic Technology, and Professional Development, Coastal Carolina University
Moderator: Jonathan Rhodes, Outreach Manager, South Carolina Student Loan Corporation
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 10:00AM
Supporting Veteran Students: Understanding Basic VA Educational Benefits
Presenter: Kala Hudson, Ed.D., Director of Adult Learning and Veterans Services, Converse University
Moderator: Bill Ayers, Head of Campus Development, College Avenue Student Loans
Description: This session is designed to equip financial aid administrators with a foundational understanding of the educational benefits offered through the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This session will cover key programs including the Post-9/11 GI Bill ®, Montgomery GI Bill®, and the Yellow Ribbon Program, highlighting eligibility criteria, benefit structures, and common processing procedures. Attendees will gain practical insights into how these benefits interact with institutional aid and Title IV funding, along with strategies to better support veteran students navigating their educational journey. Whether you're new to veteran services or looking to refresh your knowledge, this presentation provides the essential tools to serve those who’ve served.
Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 10:00AM
Remembering the Why: Reclaiming Calm, Boundaries, & Purpose in Financial Aid
Presenters: Justin Draegar, Senior Vice President, Affordability, Strada Education Foundation; Samantha Hicks, Ed.D., Assistant Vice President, Financial Aid and Scholarships, Coastal Carolina University
Moderator: Brad Scaggs, Associate Principal, Kennedy & Company
Description: Financial aid professionals are no strangers to stress, change, and never-ending to-do lists. As expectations continue to grow, it’s easy to lose sight of why we started, and even easier to forget that our well-being matters just as much as the students we serve. This honest, restorative session explores burnout, boundaries, and the myth of “being caught up.” We’ll share practical ways to find calm, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with purpose, especially if you’re asking yourself: Should I keep doing this? Through real stories, grounding exercises, and simple tools, we’ll reflect on what it means to lead from any seat and care for ourselves along the way. Come as you are. Leave with more clarity, calm, and maybe even a little hope.
Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10:00AM
“Ask Me Anything” Session
Facilitator: Kelly Savoie, Director, Assistant Region Head, Sallie Mae
Panelists: Joey Derrick, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, University of South Carolina; Elizabeth Milam, Director of Student Financial Aid, Clemson University; Melanie Gillespie, Dean of Enrollment Operations, Tri-County Technical College; Michelle Hare, Director of Financial Aid, Winthrop University; Carolyn Sparks, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Director of Financial Aid, Wofford College
Moderator: Becky Davis, Regional Sales Director, Ascendium Education
Description: Join us for an open and engaging "Ask Me Anything" session featuring a panel of seasoned financial aid leaders from across South Carolina’s higher education landscape. This is your chance to hear directly from decision-makers, ask your most pressing questions, and gain diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing our profession. No topic is off-limits—bring your curiosity and join the conversation!
