Meet your new SACAC President-elect!

Tyler Peterson

Executive Director, Admissions and Financial Assistance

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Why did you want to join the SACAC Board?

My first term on the Board from 2013-2016 was very impactful in my growth as a professional. I feel great pride in the work we did and deep appreciation for the way SACAC poured into my life. Having the opportunity to serve again with a new set of colleagues and an enormous set of challenges is both encouraging and exciting.

Identify a person who has been particularly influential in your growth and development as a college admissions professional.

Too many to name just one, but a special shout out to all those I have worked for or with, who have invested in me over the years and supported me as I continue to learn, grow, and lead — especially Buddy Starling, Sheri Salmon, Nicole Pinkham, and Bradley Barnes.

In light of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, what is one thing you hope to see change/develop/disappear from the college admission industry?

I hope to see more flexibility in working remotely and a more relaxed dress code when we are back in the office!

Say you were confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Education, what policy would you implement/change on day one of your term?

I would replace the FAFSA with an awarding process based on tax returns and quit making low income families jump through so many hoops.