On this episode, Dr. Tisa interviewed Jackie Cottom, Compliance Specialist and Webinar Producer, at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).

During this episode, Jackie explains:

• shifting timelines and errors, and how the Department of Education has worked to resolve them
• how the 2025-26 student and family experience should differ from 2024-25
• NASFAA’s role in professional development, training, and advocating for administrators

Jackie has served in the financial aid community since 2005 and has made it a priority to work with organizations that value the importance of promoting student access and success in higher education. Prior to joining NASFAA in 2020, she worked at Northern Virginia Community College as the assistant director of financial aid compliance and support. She began her professional career at a foundation promoting the message “College is Possible” during hundreds of planning and paying for college workshops she organized around the country with community, local and national partners. 

Over the years, she has volunteered and served in state, regional, and national associations. She currently lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and their two sons and daughter. Jackie is a proud alumna of James Madison University-Go DUKES!

Connect with Our Guest

• Connect with Jackie Cottom: LinkedIn
• Visit NASFAA online: Web
• Follow NASFAA online: Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Connect with the Maryland Center for Collegiate Financial Wellness

• Connect with Dr. Tisa Silver Canady: LinkedIn
• Visit MCCFW online: Web
• Follow MCCFW online: Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube
• Have an idea for who should we interview? Suggest our next guest!

The CRREST Podcast is a production of the Maryland Center for Collegiate Financial Wellness. Helping campus-based professionals and community partners bring the CRREST vision to fruition.

To learn more, visit: mccfw.org/podcast