NASPA in New Orleans is just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited! This annual gathering of student affairs professionals is always a highlight, but this year feels extra special. I’m thrilled to be keynoting the VPSA Institute, facilitating two engaging conference presentations, co-hosting the Connected Exec Meet-Up, and offering individual VPSA consultations (pre-registration required).
NASPA offers a unique blend of learning, connection, and celebration—set this year against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans. As I prepare for this incredible experience, I’m reflecting on how to make the most of it and want to share my approach for diving into the conference fully.
Prioritize Your Goals
This year, my focus is intentionally multifaceted:
Keynoting the VPSA Institute is an honor, and I’m excited to dive deep into leadership, strategy, and purpose with such a dedicated group.
Facilitating two conference presentations allows me to connect with colleagues on key topics shaping our field—especially the evolving role of AI in student affairs and leadership strategies for today’s higher education landscape.
The Connected Exec Meet-Up is one of my favorite spaces to build community and foster meaningful connections among senior leaders. This year I am a Co-Host and excited to spend time with my clients and colleagues.
And for those who pre-register, I’ll be offering individual VPSA consultations, providing personalized guidance and support tailored to the challenges and opportunities VPSAs are facing today.
Of course, I’m equally excited to reconnect with cherished friends, colleagues, and the vibrant #SAPros community that makes this work so rewarding.
Plan Your Schedule (but Be Flexible)
With so many dynamic sessions and events, pre-planning is key, but I’m also leaving space for spontaneous moments—the hallway conversations, unplanned coffee chats, and the serendipitous sessions that spark new ideas.
I’ve mapped out my schedule using the NASPA app, highlighting sessions that align with my interests, especially around leadership, DEI, and emerging technologies. But, let’s be real—this is New Orleans, and I’m also planning time to:
Explore the French Quarter
Enjoy some beignets at Café du Monde
Listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street
Conferences are about learning, but they’re also about soaking up the city and recharging our creative energies.
Engage and Network
One of the greatest gifts of NASPA is the opportunity to connect—and I’m leaning all the way in this year.
Whether it’s during sessions, receptions, or impromptu meet-ups, I’m excited to:
Catch up with Glass Half Full Consulting clients
Reconnect with former Aspiring VPSA Institute participants and faculty
Meet new colleagues who are passionate about student success and AI
And don’t forget, if you’re a senior student affairs leader, join us for the Connected Exec Meet-Up—it’s always one of the most meaningful networking spaces at NASPA.
Celebrate and Recognize
NASPA is also about celebration—and there’s plenty to celebrate this year! I’m especially excited to honor the 2025 "Pillars of the Profession"—colleagues who have made a lasting impact on our field. I’m also looking forward to recognizing those stepping into new leadership roles within the association and beyond. These moments remind me why we do what we do—and why community and recognition matter so deeply.
Take Notes (for Yourself and Others)
With so much inspiration swirling around, I’m making it a priority to capture key takeaways—from insightful speaker quotes to new strategies and tools.
I’ll be blogging throughout the conference and will share a reflective post after the event to keep the conversation going. If you’re not attending NASPA this year, I hope my notes and reflections help you stay connected to some of the incredible ideas and discussions happening in New Orleans.
Spotlighting Glass Half Full Consulting on a National Stage
This year, I’m also excited to showcase the incredible work of Glass Half Full Consulting. Our small but mighty team continues to make a big impact across higher education, offering:
AI training & professional development
AI implementation consulting and support
Executive coaching
Organizational development
Strategic planning services
If you’re interested in learning how we can support your institution, let’s connect at NASPA!
Reflect and Recharge
NASPA can feel like a whirlwind, so I’m also carving out time to reflect and recharge—whether that’s taking a quiet walk along the Mississippi River, savoring a local meal, or simply stepping back to process the incredible ideas and connections made.
So, here I come, NASPA New Orleans! I’m ready to learn, connect, create, and celebrate alongside some of the most inspiring professionals in higher education.
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