CFNC Launches Financial Aid Champions
CFNC Launches Financial Aid Champions
This recognition thanks educators for their work helping students pay for college
RALEIGH, NC (March 17, 2025) – CFNC is offering a new designation to recognize school counselors and college advisors following financial aid best practices. Educators can apply now to be recognized as one of CFNC’s Financial Aid Champions. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2025.
The designation is meant to honor educators for their hard work using some of the best methods for helping students access financial aid. The CFNC.org website offers an easy-to-follow checklist of events and steps for those wishing to participate that can help educators focus on the activities that work and recognize them for their efforts.
“Our school counselors and college advisors are on the front lines in helping make sure students have access to all the resources they need to go to college,” said Mary Shuping, interim executive director of the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority, the government agency that is the primary sponsor of CFNC. “We want these dedicated education professionals to know that they are valued and that their contribution to the state is recognized.”
The high schools receiving the Financial Aid Champion designation will get themed materials that will help them at future financial aid events, including a T-shirt, pins, posters and a certificate for their school. They will also get an e-mail badge noting the designation, their school name will be highlighted on CFNC’s web site and they will be included in a press release for local media. The Financial Aid Champions will also be honored at the Financial Aid Summit where they will pick up their materials.
Those interested in participating must be at a school that is a registered Countdown 2 College site, and must register to attend the upcoming Financial Aid Summit (registration coming soon). The educator’s school must complete the Financial Aid Champion checklist, earning a minimum of 100 points.
“Financial aid plays a crucial role in making higher education accessible to students from all walks of life, especially those facing financial barriers and first-generation students,” said Brandy Peters, lead counselor at South Johnston High School and a Financial Aid Champion participant. “Financial aid best practices are essential as they ensure our students receive the right information and they understand their responsibilities.”
Interested educators can participate by filling out this short interest form. Participation is optional and only completed applications will be accepted. Applications must include all necessary documents to be considered complete and must be submitted by the April 30 deadline. Email [email protected] with any questions or go to the CFNC.org website for more information.
www.ncseaa.edu
3120 Poplarwood Ct., Raleigh, NC 27604
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 41349, Raleigh, NC 27629
The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) is the state agency that has been helping North Carolinians pay for education since 1965. NCSEAA administers financial aid and savings programs, helps students and families understand how to make