Project scope
Categories
Data visualization Data analysis Financial modeling Economics Machine learningSkills
financial modeling financial engineering forecasting strategic planning financial planning time series analysis and forecasting econometrics executive presentations monte carlo methods financial analysisThe Vermont Speech Language Hearing Association (VSHA) seeks to enhance its financial transparency and diversify its revenue streams as part of its 2024–2026 Strategic Plan. This project offers students in the MS Financial Engineering Capstone course the opportunity to apply their advanced financial skills to assess VSHA's current financial health. The primary goal is to model various revenue strategies and provide data-driven recommendations for long-term sustainability. Students will collaborate with key VSHA personnel, including the Treasurer, President, and Membership Chair, to incorporate live data on membership, programming, and expenses into their financial models. The project aims to optimize the financial impact of VSHA's programs and services, ensuring the organization can continue supporting speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and communication science professionals across Vermont.
Students will deliver a comprehensive financial analysis report that includes an evaluation of VSHA's current financial status and models of potential revenue strategies. The report will contain data-driven recommendations for enhancing financial sustainability. Additionally, students will present their findings and recommendations to VSHA's leadership team, providing actionable insights to guide the organization's financial planning and decision-making processes.
Key Goals & Deliverables:
Financial Baseline Analysis
- Analyze VSHA’s historical financial data (dues, CEU revenue, sponsorships, expenses)
- Create a detailed financial dashboard using AI-driven visualization tools or econometric methods
Scenario Modeling & Forecasting
- Develop Monte Carlo simulations or time-series forecasting models to predict the impact of:
- Monthly vs. annual membership subscription options
- CEU-based revenue streams
- Rolling membership vs. calendar-year renewals
- Sponsorship scenarios based on fundraising tiers
- Incorporate inflation, population growth, and member churn into models
Revenue Diversification Strategy
- Identify 2–3 new, scalable revenue pathways (e.g., tiered pricing, sustainable sponsorship programs, targeted fundraising)
- Recommend implementation timelines and risk profiles using factor models or sustainable finance metrics
AI-Powered Insights for Member Behavior
- Use AI or machine learning techniques to analyze member payment behaviors and predict likelihood of renewal or drop-off
- Suggest automated triggers for member engagement campaigns based on usage or interaction data
Final Report & Executive Presentation
- Summarize key findings, models, assumptions, and actionable recommendations in a written report
- Deliver a 15–20 minute final presentation to VSHA’s Executive Board in December
Student Skills & Tools Required:
- Financial modeling, econometrics, and AI techniques (machine learning, Monte Carlo simulations)
- Proficiency in Excel, R, Python, or similar
- Familiarity with nonprofit budgeting and forecasting is helpful but not required
Outcomes for Learners:
- Practical application of quantitative finance to a nonprofit context
- Exposure to budgeting, pricing strategy, and sustainable finance within a real-world organization
- Mentorship and collaboration with nonprofit leaders
Providing specialized, in-depth knowledge and general industry insights for a comprehensive understanding.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Direct involvement in project tasks, offering guidance, and demonstrating techniques.
Providing access to necessary tools, software, and resources required for project completion.
Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
Supported causes
The global challenges this project addresses, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Learn more about all 17 SDGs here.
About the company
The Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association (VSHA) is the statewide professional organization serving speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and communication science professionals across Vermont. Our mission is to support those who address communication and swallowing disorders through advocacy, professional development, and community connection.
Our Mission
VSHA’s mission is to serve the needs of professionals working in communication sciences and disorders through:
- Professional development
- Advocacy
- Colleagueship
Our Core Purposes:
As outlined in our bylaws, VSHA exists to:
- Advocate for the rights and interests of individuals with communication disorders
- Represent the professional interests of our members before government agencies and regulatory bodies
- Promote public awareness and understanding of speech, language, hearing, and swallowing challenges
- Ensure the availability of effective and equitable services
- Serve as a forum for information exchange and community building
- Advance the standards of clinical training and ethical practice
- Support academic and clinical preparation for new professionals entering the field
VSHA's Strategic Priorities (2024–2026)
VSHA is guided by a strategic plan organized around four key goals:
Member Value & Engagement
We are committed to increasing engagement through continuing education (CEUs), peer networking, and member-specific resources. Highlights include:
Quarterly journal clubs and CEU events
Subcommittees for specialty areas (school-based, medical, audiology, private practice)
Biannual mixers and student mentorship opportunities
Salary negotiation workshops and advocacy toolkits
Advocacy & Visibility
VSHA actively advocates for state and federal policy reforms that benefit the professions and those we serve. Recent priorities include:
Medicaid reimbursement reform and improved prior authorization policies
Legislative efforts to secure school-based salary supplements for CCC-SLPs
Annual Student Advocacy Day and participation in ASHA’s State Advocates for Reimbursement (StAR), SEAL, and StAMP programs
Public presence at community events and legislative venues such as the Vermont Statehouse
Financial Health & Sustainability
To ensure long-term impact, VSHA is enhancing financial transparency and exploring diverse revenue streams through:
Membership campaigns and auto-renewal options
Fundraising, sponsorships, and donation drives
Cost-benefit analysis of CEU programming and ASHA provider designation
Operational Efficiency
VSHA has transitioned to an Association Management Online (AMO) platform to streamline operations. This includes:
A redesigned website with a members-only portal
Integrated event registration, dues management, and communication tools
Updated governance and documentation systems, including a board manual and role-specific calendars
Our Structure
VSHA is governed by an elected Board of Directors and supported by committee and liaison roles across practice settings. We maintain formal connections with the University of Vermont, ASHA's national advocacy networks, and interdisciplinary partners in education and healthcare.
Get Involved
Membership in VSHA is open to certified professionals, students, and associate members interested in communication sciences. Members benefit from professional networking, discounted CEUs, timely policy updates, and opportunities to lead Vermont’s advocacy efforts.
Our new member portal can be accessed via https://members.vsha.us/ to join, renew, or access exclusive member resources.