Washington State College of Ohio Helps Students During Financial Aid Awareness Month

College offers workshops, counseling, and initiatives to expand educational opportunity through financial aid

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) is working to raise awareness about financial aid resources and help students and families access grants, scholarships, and other assistance to cover the cost of college. The college offers workshops, drop-in sessions, and individualized counseling to guide students through the FAFSA process and explore additional funding opportunities, including the Free College initiative and the College Credit Plus program that allows high school students to earn college credits at no direct cost.

Why it matters

Financial aid is a powerful tool for expanding educational opportunity, but many students and families are unaware of the resources available or face barriers to completing the necessary applications. WSCO's efforts to promote financial aid awareness and provide hands-on support aim to ensure more Ohioans can access affordable higher education and achieve their academic goals.

The details

WSCO offers a range of services to help students navigate the financial aid process, including workshops, drop-in sessions, and individualized counseling. The college also has a Free College initiative that helps students identify all available funding opportunities. Additionally, WSCO partners with 29 high schools to offer the College Credit Plus program, which allows students in grades 7-12 to earn up to 30 college credits per year at no direct cost.

  • Each February, colleges across the country highlight Financial Aid Awareness Month.
  • Sign-up for Ohio's College Credit Plus program begins in February and continues through April.
  • On February 25, WSCO will host a FAFSA workshop from 4-7 p.m.

The players

Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO)

A college in Ohio that is working to raise awareness about financial aid resources and help students and families access grants, scholarships, and other assistance to cover the cost of college.

Madison Galloway

The Director of Financial Aid at WSCO, who emphasizes the importance of financial aid in expanding educational opportunity.

Dr. Jona Rinard

The Vice President of Academic Affairs at WSCO, who discusses the impact of the College Credit Plus program in helping high school students earn college credits at no direct cost.

Avi Zaffini

The president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, who highlights the value of Ohio's community colleges in providing affordable higher education and workforce training.

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What they’re saying

“Completing the FAFSA is often the first step towards opening new doors, helping students explore resources that can make college possible and shape a new future.”

— Madison Galloway, Director of Financial Aid

“College Credit Plus has been a game-changer for students and families. Students can earn credits that count toward both high school graduation and future college degrees.”

— Dr. Jona Rinard, Vice President of Academic Affairs

“Ohio's community colleges deliver the greatest value in higher education, combining affordability with strong workforce outcomes. Financial aid helps remove barriers so more Ohioans can access training and credentials that lead directly to in-demand jobs.”

— Avi Zaffini, President and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges

What’s next

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The takeaway

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