Nelnet is pleased to introduce the 2005 spring Nelnet Full Circle Award under our quarterly recognition program designed to highlight the professional excellence of Financial Aid Officers. The first award recipient is Mary McKinney, Director of Student Financial Aid at the University of Central Florida.

"If one were to search for the best example of a well-rounded, exemplary person in the financial aid profession, one would be hard pressed to find a better candidate than Mary McKinney. She is, without doubt, a true believer in the financial aid profession and its ability to create opportunities for students to realize their educational dreams," said Carmen Afghani, Vice President of Nelnet Campus Solutions. "In addition, Mary is a wonderful leader - one who leads by example, and motivates others with a kindness that is exceptional. She engenders loyalty from those who work for her, which in turn, produces a great team that is reliable and industrious."

Mrs. McKinney answered a job advertisement 28 years ago to secure her first position in the financial aid field. Today she feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to make a difference in people‘s lives.

"I feel that all students deserve the opportunity to attend college. As a financial aid officer, I have an obligation to assist students in achieving that goal, and as financial aid officers we should serve as positive examples with an "I can do it attitude" to inspire and encourage the students to their fullest capabilities," stated Mrs. McKinney.

Being a first generation college student, Mrs. McKinney credits her parents with providing direction and support over the years, and a multitude of friends and colleagues in helping to shape her vision and success as a Financial Aid Director. "I am blessed to have Dr. John Washington, a former UCF professor, as a friend and my minister until his untimely death. He still continues to be one of my greatest inspirations. Not be forgotten Judy Gallo a retired assistant and Lisa Minnick my right hand in the UCF financial aid office. These are two women that have given me the encouragement to develop the skills and working abilities in my chosen field. Both individuals are dedicated higher education professionals who don‘t realize the impact and importance they have had on my career and my life."

"Financial Aid Directors such as Mary McKinney have dedicated their time and energy over the course of many years to the cause of helping students meet their educational goals, providing them with financial assistance and guidance. Nelnet is please and honored to award Mrs. McKinney for her outstanding dedication and commitment to students and parents," said Scott Spethman, Managing Director of Nelnet Campus Solutions.

Nelnet presents the Full Circle Award quarterly. Recipients receive a crystal desk trophy with their name, date, and award description, and will also be featured in Nelnet‘s national school newsletter, "the Nelnet E-update." Recipients will also be recognized on the Nelnet Web site, www.nelnet.net. To nominate a Financial Aid Officer, Nelnet school representatives, coworkers, or other college offices can write a one paragraph nomination letter outlining how the nominee demonstrates excellence, and e-mail it to CAMPUSSOLUTIONS@nelnet.net, or mail it to Marketing Support Services, 121 South 13th Street, Suite 400, Lincoln, NE 68508.

Additional information is available at www.nelnet.net.