Erick Danielson is the Vice President of Programs at the Iowa College Access Network (ICAN), an organization dedicated to helping students and families prepare for life after high school. Through ICAN, Erick plays a key role in delivering financial literacy and college planning resources across the state.
ICAN offers one-on-one appointments—both virtual and in-person—to assist families with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and reviewing financial aid offers from colleges and universities. In addition to these appointments, ICAN hosts a range of events called How to Pay for College, held virtually, in communities, and in schools throughout Iowa. These sessions typically begin in students’ sophomore or junior years, helping them prepare for the financial aid process well before senior year.
Erick’s responsibilities are broad and hands-on. “I supervise the day-to-day operations of all the ICAN locations state-wide,” he says, “as well as hold appointments, presentations, and FAFSA events in my territory in Central Iowa.” His involvement ensures that families across the state have access to accurate, timely information as they navigate college costs.
He is also a very active member of Iowa Jump$tart. “Iowa Jump$tart has been a great organization to be involved with over the years,” Erick says. “I have made some great friends and connections.” One highlight for him is the annual Financial Literacy Challenge, held each April. “I have had the pleasure of being a judge 3–4 times for the event and it is amazing to see the presentations students put together from a case study they just got that day and have an hour to come up with a game plan. Love seeing the different ways the students tackle the case study. I am always wishing I knew at their age what they have learned already.”
Outside of his professional work, Erick enjoys sports—both watching and playing—but says his favorite activity is his family’s yearly beach vacation. “If I had to choose one thing, it would be our family’s annual beach vacation to Destin, Florida. I absolutely love being a ‘Beach Bum’ down there.”
Through his leadership at ICAN and engagement with Iowa Jump$tart, Erick Danielson continues to support students and families as they prepare for one of life’s biggest financial decisions: paying for college.
Iowa Jump$tart Coalition 