From FAFSA to Enrollment: Rethinking Financial Aid and Access

In this first episode, the Vice President for Enrollment Development & College Futures sits down with Michelle Rhodes, Grand Valley’s Associate Vice President for Financial Aid, to unpack the rapidly shifting financial aid landscape and what it means for students, families, and institutions.Their conversation explores the real impact of recent FAFSA changes, how federal policy is shaping enrollment strategy, and why financial aid is no longer just a back-end process but a central part of how colleges communicate value and affordability. From reframing college as a long-term investment to offering actionable advice on scholarships, budgeting, and reducing debt, this episode highlights what it takes to build trust, improve access, and support students in making informed choices about their future.