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Thursday, May 22
 

7:30am PDT

Breakfast
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Crosby Ballroom West
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am PDT
Crosby Ballroom West
  Meals/Breaks

7:30am PDT

Exhibit Hall Opens
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 5:00pm PDT
Salon B
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 5:00pm PDT
Salon B
  General

7:30am PDT

Registration Desk Opens
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 5:00pm PDT
Ballroom Foyer
Staff
AG
avatar for Bethany Libus

Bethany Libus

Marketing Manager, Fame
avatar for Rick Rosado

Rick Rosado

Sales Manager, Fame
Rick Rosado has been a  member of the Fame Sales Team since 2009 and brings 20+ years of past experience in the Higher Education Sector. He holds an Associate Degree in Business Computer Programming. He has held the positions of  Admissions Director, Registrar, Financial Aid Director... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 7:30am - 5:00pm PDT
Ballroom Foyer
  General

8:30am PDT

Welcome
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
Speakers
avatar for Thomas Musson

Thomas Musson

Vice President of Operations and Professional Services, Fame
As Vice President of Operations, Mr. Musson oversees FAME’s Financial Aid Processing Center, Client Solution Center (Customer Service, Technical Support, and Implementations), and Fiscal Services. Tommy’s career spans more than 28 years in customer and product service operations... Read More →
avatar for Ricky Alfaro

Ricky Alfaro

General Manager, CEO, Fame
As General Manager of Fame, Mr. Alfaro is responsible for growing Fame's business through key initiatives and bringing new products to market. He has 18+ years of management and process improvement experience and 14+ years of experience working with student information systems, financial... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  General

9:00am PDT

Breaking News! Federal Updates
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
As this real-life drama unfolds, meet the players, their roles, changes in the terrain, and what to expect over the next few months. This is bound to be at the top of your must-see list.
Speakers
avatar for Tom Netting

Tom Netting

CEO, TEN Government Strategies
Tom Netting has more than 30 years of experience working in government relations and public policy and has established himself as a leader in strategic policy development and advocacy in the fields of higher education and workforce development, elementary and secondary education... Read More →
avatar for Sally Samuels

Sally Samuels

Director of Compliance, Fame
Sally is one of the country’s leading authorities on Federal financial aid administration with 41 years of “in the trenches” experience. As a respected Industry leader, she is frequently called upon to speak at School, Accrediting, Regional and State conferences as well as... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  General

9:00am PDT

Support Room
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
El Dorado 1
Speakers
avatar for Carolyn Melton

Carolyn Melton

Client Solutions Manager, Fame
Carolyn has been in the higher education sector for 22 years. Carolyn served as Director of Financial Aid prior to her finding a position in the Consulting Services Department at Fame. She now brings her extensive knowledge of ESP, Advantage FinAid, Freedom, Freedom FinAid, and APFAM... Read More →
avatar for Monica Heslin

Monica Heslin

Financial Aid Service Specialist, Fame
Monica Heslin has been in higher education for 24 years. Starting out as a cosmetology educator she quickly realized the importance of a full circle structure within the post-secondary. She has focused the last 15 years on financial aid, compliance, and school management. Monica’s... Read More →
Staff
avatar for Jessica Posey

Jessica Posey

Technical Support Representative, Fame
KR

Kristin Ravassipour

VFAO Disbursements and R2T4 Team Lead, Fame
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
El Dorado 1
  General

9:00am PDT

Tech Demos
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Conference Center Foyer
Speakers
AY

Andrei Yancheuski

Advantage Product Owner, Fame
Meet Andrei, an accomplished professional with over 15 years of hands-on experience in Information Technology (IT). With a rich and diverse background, he has led numerous projects, demonstrating a unique ability to transform complex technical concepts into user-friendly solutions... Read More →
avatar for Christie Michaelides

Christie Michaelides

Advantage FinAid Product Owner, Fame
Beginning my journey on the FA Processing team, I showed an innate understanding of financial aid processes and navigating the complexities of Title IV funding. Throughout the years I have transitioned through several positions within the department, each time bringing a fresh perspective... Read More →
avatar for Alejandro Gomez

Alejandro Gomez

Advantage FinAid Team Lead, Fame
avatar for Joseph Gonzalez

Joseph Gonzalez

Director of Development, Fame
avatar for Steven Pabom

Steven Pabom

Director of Product Strategy & Operations, Fame
Steven is at the forefront of driving the overall product strategy for Fame, overseeing a diverse portfolio of products. With a remarkable 20 years in the Higher Education industry, Steven brings an extensive background in financial aid, boasting over 19 years of knowledge and expertise.Steven... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Conference Center Foyer
  Technology

10:00am PDT

Coffee Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT
Salon B
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am PDT
Salon B
  Meals/Breaks

10:30am PDT

Some Like It Verified: 25/26 Edition
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
Verification can often be a source of frustration for students, families, and schools alike. Learn about changes, requirements, and common errors to ensure students receive the aid they qualify for. Every star deserves their share!
Speakers
avatar for John Rocha

John Rocha

Financial Aid Consultant, Fame
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  Financial Aid

10:30am PDT

The Clery Act Chronicles
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
Royal Ballroom
This on-going series continues to be a top 10 compliance issue for all institutions. What is required of the small mom and pop schools? What is required to be in your CSR? Where does Title IX belong? These questions and more will unfold over time.
Speakers
avatar for Chris DeLuca

Chris DeLuca

Founder, DeLuca Law LLC
Chris DeLuca is the founder of DeLuca Law LLC, and Of Counsel with Rouse Frets Gentile Rhodes, LLC. Chris has over 25 years of experience providing legal, financial and management services to school administrators and business owners. In addition to being a licensed attorney, Chris... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
Royal Ballroom
  Management

10:30am PDT

Advantage SIS Exclusive
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
Step into the golden age of innovation as we unveil the advantages of our leading-edge SIS application! Get the behind-the-scenes exculsive on the latest enhancements and brand-new features of Advantage SIS! From dazzling new capabilities to streamlined workflows, you’ll be the first to witness how we’re taking student management to the next level.
Speakers
AY

Andrei Yancheuski

Advantage Product Owner, Fame
Meet Andrei, an accomplished professional with over 15 years of hands-on experience in Information Technology (IT). With a rich and diverse background, he has led numerous projects, demonstrating a unique ability to transform complex technical concepts into user-friendly solutions... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
  Technology

11:30am PDT

Uncovering Eligibility Items and Comment Codes
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
Let's follow the clues in this interactive scavenger hunt to uncover eligibility items and hidden comment codes.    
Speakers
avatar for Ibis Chow

Ibis Chow

Consulting Services Manager, Fame
Ibis Chow received her Bachelor's and Master of Science in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Since joining the higher education industry in 2002, she has attained a myriad of experiences and extensive financial aid knowledge within her different roles. She... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  Financial Aid

11:30am PDT

Owner's Forum
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
Speakers
avatar for Ricky Alfaro

Ricky Alfaro

General Manager, CEO, Fame
As General Manager of Fame, Mr. Alfaro is responsible for growing Fame's business through key initiatives and bringing new products to market. He has 18+ years of management and process improvement experience and 14+ years of experience working with student information systems, financial... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
  Management

11:30am PDT

Freedom SIS Walk of Fame
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
Take a journey down the 'Freedom Walk of Fame' as we explore all that your Student Information System has to offer. From processes to reports, enrollment to graduation, program set up to maintenance-let’s make sure you are using Freedom to its full potential.
Speakers
avatar for Monica Heslin

Monica Heslin

Financial Aid Service Specialist, Fame
Monica Heslin has been in higher education for 24 years. Starting out as a cosmetology educator she quickly realized the importance of a full circle structure within the post-secondary. She has focused the last 15 years on financial aid, compliance, and school management. Monica’s... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
  Technology

12:30pm PDT

Lunch
Thursday May 22, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom West
Thursday May 22, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom West
  Meals/Breaks

1:30pm PDT

Clock Hour & Co-Star Title IV Credit Balance
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
Join us for a hands-on, live walkthrough session on determining Title IV Credit balances for clock hour programs. We'll guide you through the ins and outs of financial calculations, ensuring your school earns your gold star.
Speakers
avatar for Ibis Chow

Ibis Chow

Consulting Services Manager, Fame
Ibis Chow received her Bachelor's and Master of Science in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Since joining the higher education industry in 2002, she has attained a myriad of experiences and extensive financial aid knowledge within her different roles. She... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  Financial Aid

1:30pm PDT

Cybersecurity Spotlight
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
Cybersecurity is always a topic in the spotlight.  Data breaches continue to occur at major businesses and  institutions across the globe. This session reminds you of the requirements and how to best protect the students and  your institution.
Speakers
avatar for Brandon Sherman

Brandon Sherman

Saul Ewing
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
  Management

1:30pm PDT

Freedom FinAid Awards
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
“And the Financial Aid award goes to...." in this session we will cover Freedom FinAid’s award process, including award letters, completing verification, packing, certification, and other essential parts of the Financial Aid award process.
Speakers
avatar for Monica Heslin

Monica Heslin

Financial Aid Service Specialist, Fame
Monica Heslin has been in higher education for 24 years. Starting out as a cosmetology educator she quickly realized the importance of a full circle structure within the post-secondary. She has focused the last 15 years on financial aid, compliance, and school management. Monica’s... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
  Technology

2:30pm PDT

Rolling with System Changes and Eligibility Applications
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
How to navigate the Partner Portal and complete the eligibility updates required by ED continues to be a mystery. This session will provide useful clues for a successful outcome.
Speakers
avatar for Sally Samuels

Sally Samuels

Director of Compliance, Fame
Sally is one of the country’s leading authorities on Federal financial aid administration with 41 years of “in the trenches” experience. As a respected Industry leader, she is frequently called upon to speak at School, Accrediting, Regional and State conferences as well as... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  Financial Aid

2:30pm PDT

Who's Who of Washington, DC
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
Who's Who of Washington, DC is an up-to-date news program giving you an inside look at the players, current activities, and possible impact on our industry.
Speakers
avatar for Tom Netting

Tom Netting

CEO, TEN Government Strategies
Tom Netting has more than 30 years of experience working in government relations and public policy and has established himself as a leader in strategic policy development and advocacy in the fields of higher education and workforce development, elementary and secondary education... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
  Management

2:30pm PDT

Advantage FinAid Feature
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
Come see the next big sensation in Financial Aid! In this exclusive session, we’re debuting Advantage FinAid! With seamless navigation and groundbreaking efficiency, our flagship FinAid application is your trusted co-star, ensuring students receive the financial support they need for a standing ovation in their academic journey.




Speakers
avatar for Christie Michaelides

Christie Michaelides

Advantage FinAid Product Owner, Fame
Beginning my journey on the FA Processing team, I showed an innate understanding of financial aid processes and navigating the complexities of Title IV funding. Throughout the years I have transitioned through several positions within the department, each time bringing a fresh perspective... Read More →
avatar for Alejandro Gomez

Alejandro Gomez

Advantage FinAid Team Lead, Fame
Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
  Technology

3:30pm PDT

Afternoon Break
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
Salon B
Thursday May 22, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
Salon B
  Meals/Breaks

4:00pm PDT

24/25 Special Circumstances Story
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
Sometimes you only get pieces of a story. Often student financial situation isn’t accurately reflected on their FAFSA. Learn about special circumstances and extenuating circumstances, what qualifies as a special or extenuating circumstance, and what you need to collect from the student.  
Speakers
avatar for John Rocha

John Rocha

Financial Aid Consultant, Fame
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
Crosby Ballroom North
  Financial Aid

4:00pm PDT

Retention = Revenue: How to Keep Students Engaged, Enrolled, and Graduating
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
Retention = Revenue: How to Keep Students Engaged, Enrolled, and Graduating
Student retention is one of the biggest challenges facing trade schools today—yet it’s also one of the most critical factors impacting school revenue, accreditation, and reputation. In this powerful session, school owners and administrators will gain actionable strategies to help students stay motivated, engaged, and on track to graduate.

This session will explore:
✔ The real reasons students drop out and how to address them before it’s too late
✔ Proven strategies to improve student engagement, support, and career motivation
✔ The financial impact of retention and how completing more students leads to higher revenue
✔ A hands-on group activity where attendees will develop a Retention Rescue Plan

If you’re looking for practical, high-impact solutions to improve retention and school outcomes, this session is a must-attend!
Speakers
avatar for Beauty Cast Network

Beauty Cast Network

Founder, Beauty Cast Network
Penny Burns – Founder, Beauty Cast NetworkWith nearly four decades in the beauty industry, Penny Burnsis a passionate advocate for career success in the beauty andwellness space. As the founder of Beauty Cast Network, shebrings a wealth of experience—from owning and managingnine... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
Royal Ballroom
  Management

4:00pm PDT

The Inside Scoop on VFAO
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
Get the inside scoop from Amber, Joseph, and Steven as they debut Fame’s latest feature—the Virtual Financial Aid Office! This service is set to transform Financial Aid support, delivering efficiency, convenience, and expert guidance with a performance worthy of a standing ovation. Get an exclusive first look at the newest features, cutting-edge enhancements, and insights that make this offering a true asset for Financial Aid administration.
Speakers
avatar for Joseph Gonzalez

Joseph Gonzalez

Director of Development, Fame
avatar for Steven Pabom

Steven Pabom

Director of Product Strategy & Operations, Fame
Steven is at the forefront of driving the overall product strategy for Fame, overseeing a diverse portfolio of products. With a remarkable 20 years in the Higher Education industry, Steven brings an extensive background in financial aid, boasting over 19 years of knowledge and expertise.Steven... Read More →
avatar for Amber Turner

Amber Turner

Director of Virtual Financial Aid Services, Fame
Amber Turner has 20+ years of experience in finance and 14+ years of experience in Financial Aid Administration. Currently serving as the Director of Virtual Financial Aid Services, Amber is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Virtual Financial Aid Office. Her role includes... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 4:00pm - 4:50pm PDT
El Dorado 2,3,4
  Technology

5:30pm PDT

Welcome Reception
Thursday May 22, 2025 5:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Oasis Pool
Speakers
avatar for Thomas Musson

Thomas Musson

Vice President of Operations and Professional Services, Fame
As Vice President of Operations, Mr. Musson oversees FAME’s Financial Aid Processing Center, Client Solution Center (Customer Service, Technical Support, and Implementations), and Fiscal Services. Tommy’s career spans more than 28 years in customer and product service operations... Read More →
avatar for Ricky Alfaro

Ricky Alfaro

General Manager, CEO, Fame
As General Manager of Fame, Mr. Alfaro is responsible for growing Fame's business through key initiatives and bringing new products to market. He has 18+ years of management and process improvement experience and 14+ years of experience working with student information systems, financial... Read More →
avatar for Ibis Chow

Ibis Chow

Consulting Services Manager, Fame
Ibis Chow received her Bachelor's and Master of Science in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Since joining the higher education industry in 2002, she has attained a myriad of experiences and extensive financial aid knowledge within her different roles. She... Read More →
avatar for John Rocha

John Rocha

Financial Aid Consultant, Fame
avatar for Sally Samuels

Sally Samuels

Director of Compliance, Fame
Sally is one of the country’s leading authorities on Federal financial aid administration with 41 years of “in the trenches” experience. As a respected Industry leader, she is frequently called upon to speak at School, Accrediting, Regional and State conferences as well as... Read More →
avatar for Carolyn Melton

Carolyn Melton

Client Solutions Manager, Fame
Carolyn has been in the higher education sector for 22 years. Carolyn served as Director of Financial Aid prior to her finding a position in the Consulting Services Department at Fame. She now brings her extensive knowledge of ESP, Advantage FinAid, Freedom, Freedom FinAid, and APFAM... Read More →
avatar for Monica Heslin

Monica Heslin

Financial Aid Service Specialist, Fame
Monica Heslin has been in higher education for 24 years. Starting out as a cosmetology educator she quickly realized the importance of a full circle structure within the post-secondary. She has focused the last 15 years on financial aid, compliance, and school management. Monica’s... Read More →
AY

Andrei Yancheuski

Advantage Product Owner, Fame
Meet Andrei, an accomplished professional with over 15 years of hands-on experience in Information Technology (IT). With a rich and diverse background, he has led numerous projects, demonstrating a unique ability to transform complex technical concepts into user-friendly solutions... Read More →
avatar for Christie Michaelides

Christie Michaelides

Advantage FinAid Product Owner, Fame
Beginning my journey on the FA Processing team, I showed an innate understanding of financial aid processes and navigating the complexities of Title IV funding. Throughout the years I have transitioned through several positions within the department, each time bringing a fresh perspective... Read More →
avatar for Alejandro Gomez

Alejandro Gomez

Advantage FinAid Team Lead, Fame
avatar for Joseph Gonzalez

Joseph Gonzalez

Director of Development, Fame
avatar for Steven Pabom

Steven Pabom

Director of Product Strategy & Operations, Fame
Steven is at the forefront of driving the overall product strategy for Fame, overseeing a diverse portfolio of products. With a remarkable 20 years in the Higher Education industry, Steven brings an extensive background in financial aid, boasting over 19 years of knowledge and expertise.Steven... Read More →
avatar for Amber Turner

Amber Turner

Director of Virtual Financial Aid Services, Fame
Amber Turner has 20+ years of experience in finance and 14+ years of experience in Financial Aid Administration. Currently serving as the Director of Virtual Financial Aid Services, Amber is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Virtual Financial Aid Office. Her role includes... Read More →
Staff
AG
avatar for Bethany Libus

Bethany Libus

Marketing Manager, Fame
avatar for Jessica Posey

Jessica Posey

Technical Support Representative, Fame
avatar for Kris Fuss-Gonzalez

Kris Fuss-Gonzalez

Director, Professional Services & Compliance, Fame
Kris Fuss-Gonzalez, Director of Professional Services at FAME, is a goal-oriented leader with extensive experience in financial aid for education. She has demonstrated her ability to balance the dynamic needs of compliance by utilizing her analytic skills to create plans to complete... Read More →
KR

Kristin Ravassipour

VFAO Disbursements and R2T4 Team Lead, Fame
avatar for Nancy McCallum

Nancy McCallum

Director, Financial Aid Services, Fame
Nancy serves as the Director of FAME’s Financial Aid Operations. In her current role, she oversees all of the Federal PELL and Campus based award programs. Additionally, she also manages the Federal Direct Loan Program for FAME’s ESP program clients.Nancy has a wealth of experience... Read More →
Thursday May 22, 2025 5:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Oasis Pool
  Meals/Breaks
 
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