Melanie Storey has been named the new President & CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), effective May 1, 2025. Her appointment ends a nine-month search after former President Justin Draeger resigned in June of 2024.
Storey brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with a career that spans both public and private sectors within higher education. Her leadership journey includes key roles at The College Board and the American Council on Education, where she championed financial aid policy and led impactful public service campaigns. Most recently, Storey served as the Director of Policy Implementation and Oversight at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), where she spearheaded initiatives related to the FAFSA Simplification Act and efforts to address federal student loan debt relief.
Speaking on her new role, Storey expressed her enthusiasm and commitment to NASFAA’s mission.
“As a proud, first-generation graduate and financial aid recipient, I know the transformative power of higher education,” Storey said. “I am excited to lead the organization that provides that opportunity for millions of students. It is no secret that it has been a challenging few years in higher education and financial aid specifically. The recent Covid and FAFSA crises have amplified the critical role financial aid administrators play in the broad landscape of higher education stability and sustainability. As we continue to see dramatic changes coming from Washington, NASFAA can build on that momentum and expand its strong voice for the profession and the students we serve. I look forward to bringing my experience and passion for higher education to a mission and a membership that I admire.”
Storey’s appointment has been met with widespread support within the higher education community.
Dr. Raymond Nault, President of College Aid Services, praised Storey’s dedication and expertise. “On behalf of our team, I extend sincere congratulations to Melanie Storey on her selection as NASFAA’s next president and CEO,” Nault said. “Her deep experience, dedication to student success, and collaborative leadership style will serve the association and its members well. We look forward to working with her as she leads NASFAA into its next chapter, advancing the mission of equitable access to higher education for all.”
Sharon Oliver, Chair of NASFAA’s Presidential Search Committee, also expressed confidence in Storey’s ability to guide the organization forward. “I am thrilled to share this exciting news with our members,” Oliver said. “Many in the financial aid community are already familiar with Melanie and her unwavering support for financial aid professionals. Throughout her career, Melanie has been a steadfast advocate for students and financial aid policy. I am confident she will bring this same dedication to our shared mission in her new role as President and CEO of NASFAA.”
With Storey at the helm, NASFAA is poised to continue its vital work in supporting financial aid professionals and advocating for policies that enhance student access to higher education.