Last week, I presented our Plan for Fair Loan Payments to a “negotiated rulemaking” committee of college, student, and lender representatives appointed by the U.S. Department of Education. The discussion was positive and constructive, bringing us one step closer to implementing the reforms we developed earlier this year. In reference to our the Plan, The Chronicle of Higher Education wrote, "department officials said that they were sympathetic to the petitioners' concerns. They said that they might not have the authority to make certain changes. . . but that they would look to see if there were other changes they could make to achieve the same aims." Next, the Department will submit a detailed regulatory proposal to the committee -- and ultimately to the public -- for discussion and negotiation over the next several months. As always, we will keep you up to date on new developments and opportunities.

This brings me to my request of you. As you make year-end decisions about charitable giving, please consider a tax-deductible donation to support our ongoing work to reduce the burden of student debt and promote college access and success. Our secure donation system allows you to donate by credit card either all at once, or as a monthly contribution.

Thank you for your support and encouragement. Without you, we could not have gotten this far this fast. We look forward to building on that progress in the months and years to come.

Best wishes for the new year.

-Bob