New Manager of Outreach and Financial Counseling

The Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority (UHEAA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael H. Johnson as the Manager of Outreach and Financial Counseling.  In this role, he will plan, develop and carry out two major programs: (1) a program to assist Utah elementary and secondary students and their parents plan for college; and (2) a program to extend counseling and training resources to improve financial management skills of student borrowers.

Among his most important responsibilities are evaluating the best practices currently in use nation-wide, coordinating with student financial aid officers, high school counselors and other education professionals in determining the needs for outreach in Utah, and then bringing about support services and information materials, including innovative web-based products, to encourage young people of all backgrounds to plan for postsecondary education.

Mike brings 30 years of experience to this new assignment.  At the College of Eastern Utah, where his experience in student financial aid began, he was the Director of College Relations and then the Director of Admissions & Registration.  As Director of Financial Aid at Utah Valley State College, which experienced three name and role changes during his tenure,  Mike had experience with student aid at a technical college, a community college, and a four-year institution.  He also has served his state, regional and national associations in many leadership capacities over the years including three-time president of UASFAA, president of RMASFAA, and several years as a member of the NASFAA Board of Directors.

His well-known presentation skills further complement his experience.  For years Mike has educated students and parents about educational funding strategies.  Many financial aid professionals and educators have been instructed in a wide variety of skills and topics as he represented UASFAA, RMASFAA, NASFAA, and the U.S. Department of Education.  His expertise also has benefited state and national organizations outside education circles.

UHEAA welcomes Mike to this new position.  We look forward to his work with and contributions to the education and financial aid communities.  Mike can be contacted at (801) 321-7209 or by e-mail at mjohnson@utahsbr.edu.