July 8, 2009

'Better Together' at OGSLP's Annual Conference

At OGSLP’s Annual Conference on June 25, schools and lenders from around the state learned what it meant to truly be ‘better together.’ In addition to discussing important topics like IBR and July 1 changes, participants learned how the FFELP community can work together to spur innovation, overcome obstacles and support each other on the road to student success.

This year’s keynote speaker was world-renowned mountaineer Luis Benitez, who in 2001 led a blind man to the top of Mt. Everest. At the conference, he shared a fascinating account of his triumphs and challenges. His message conveyed the importance of setting goals, enduring all obstacles to reach those goals and recognizing the value of skilled teamwork.

In the closing session, OGSLP’s Executive Director, Mary Mowdy, spoke candidly about the importance of the programs and services provided by the FFELP community and the steps we must all take to preserve the invaluable resources OGSLP provides for Oklahoma students and schools, which include:

• Outreach and access programs that demonstrate the value of postsecondary education, build aspiration and educate families about financial aid availability.
• Products and services that simplify loan processing for borrowers and schools, such as lender comparison tools.
• Progressive early assistance programs that educate borrowers about successful repayment strategies before repayment begins.
• Financial literacy programs and services that strengthen students’ budgeting and debt management skills.

In summary, our 2009 Annual Conference was an opportunity for all of us to reaffirm our goals and share ideas to help students pursue higher education and success beyond college.

Session presentations and winners of the Tic-Tac-Together game are now available on OGSLP’s Web site. Thank you for joining us!