We are thrilled to spotlight Anne Traverso, Senior Director of Campus Relationships at SoFi, who recently received the prestigious Lifetime Membership Award from the Connecticut Association of Professional Financial Aid Administrators (CAPFAA). This award recognizes CAPFAA members who have made outstanding and sustained contributions to the financial aid profession and CAPFAA community.
Anne has dedicated her entire career to helping students access and afford higher education, working at various colleges and universities across New York and Connecticut. She transitioned to private student lending in search of new ways to support students and their families. Later, she learned about SoFi and their approach to refinancing federal and private student debt. The concept thrilled her, and additionally, she admired SoFi's mission and vision. We had a chance to sit down with Anne to discuss her role, her journey to SoFi, and the valuable impact she brings to the company and the financial aid profession.
Give us a glimpse into your role of Senior Director of Campus Relationships!
I market SoFi’s suite of private student loan products to college and university financial aid offices in six states, including Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia. In addition to building and maintaining relationships with our school clients, I also participate in industry-related organizations and activities promoting the SoFi private student loan brand. Over the last 18 months, I have also been able to be a part of the strategy to help build awareness of the SoFi brand with high school counselors and the college-bound students and their families.
What led you to join SoFi?
In 2018, I stumbled upon a post from Melissa Bassett, an esteemed figure in the financial aid and student loan industry, who had joined SoFi as Business Lead for the In-School division. I eagerly contacted her and expressed my desire to be part of the company, its culture, and her team. That was the turning point and I knew I had found something special. What keeps me here is simple—everything! SoFi's leadership, products, and the mission to help people reach financial independence to realize their ambitions. The company's culture and, above all, my team are what make me proud to be part of something bigger and better. The tremendous growth of SoFi, especially the launch and expansion of the Private Student Loan Program, has been an awe-inspiring journey, and I'm excited for what the future holds.
Speaking of Melissa Bassett, she is now Anne’s direct manager and we had a chance to ask her about Anne’s incredible achievements, and here’s what she had to say!
What is a benefit at SoFi you tell your friends and family about?
There are numerous incredible benefits at SoFi, but the one that stands out for me is the $200 per month contribution towards the Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) that I took to support my daughter's college education. With this generous contribution combined with refinancing the loan through SoFi, I can proudly say that I will be free of student loan debt in just a few more years. This benefit will have a significant impact on my financial future in the long run.
One more, just for fun! What is your favorite pastime outside of work?
Outside of work, my favorite pastime is spending quality time with my family. Becoming a grandmother six years ago has made these moments even more special, filled with love, fun, laughter, and togetherness. Additionally, I have a strong passion for traveling and experiencing different cultures. Recently, during a trip to Colombia, I had the pleasure of meeting a Member Advisory Board member, and we shared our love for SoFi, making it a small world indeed!
Anne, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you for receiving the Lifetime Membership Award from CAPFAA. Your unwavering commitment to the financial aid profession and SoFi's mission is truly commendable.
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.