The recent NASPA conference in Seattle wasn't just about professional development - it was a homecoming of sorts. It was a heartfelt reunion with the extended family of student affairs. The corridors of the conference venue buzzed with the excitement of reconnections, bridging past and present. It was a chance to celebrate great progress, share experiences, and look ahead at the field of Student Affairs and Higher Education. The theme of connection, both old and new, permeated everything for me in Seattle.
Reuniting with the 2022 & 2024 IAVPSA participants & faculty
The Institutes for Aspiring VPSA's (2022 and 2024) were profoundly important in my professional journey and will be pivotal in shaping the next generation of leaders in Student Affairs. Catching up with participants and faculty was immensely rewarding, offering a glimpse into the future of our profession through their fresh perspectives and unbridled enthusiasm. Reconnecting with these cohorts solidified my belief in the bright future of student affairs leadership.
A Convergence of Paths and Perspectives
There's something powerful about reconnecting with colleagues from all corners of the country. From Michigan State to Illinois and Florida, IAVPSA22, IAVPSA24, and many consulting clients, our conversations at NASPA painted a vivid picture of our field. It's reassuring to reconnect with so many folks who are passionate and engaged, amidst a challenging and disheartening time in our profession.
Some Disconnects are Natural
Like many, I find large professional events to sometimes bring out the best and worst in people. I join some colleagues in observing behaviors from campus leaders that I didn't appreciate nor support. Among these were a reluctance to engage with younger professionals, a tendency towards forming exclusive groups that seemed inaccessible to newcomers, and instances of unprofessionalism in social settings. Such actions not only create barriers to mentorship and collaboration but also detract from the inclusive and professional atmosphere that such conferences strive to uphold. It's crucial to acknowledge that while a certain degree of disconnect between different professional generations and peer groups is natural, fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and openness is essential. This includes actively seeking to bridge gaps between emerging professionals and established leaders, encouraging diverse interactions, and setting a standard of conduct that reflects the values and objectives of our community.This is by no means exclusive to this conference. It happens in many professional convenings in all areas of higher ed.
Championing AI in Higher Education
A highlight for me was presenting on the crucial role of vice presidents for student affairs (VPSAs) in discussions about implementing AI in higher education at the James E. Scott Academy Board meeting. The conversation wasn't just theoretical - we explored practical resources and strategies that NASPA can offer to support these important talks. This discussion underscored the transformative potential of AI in our field and the importance of informed leadership in guiding its integration. Stay tuned for more to come on this topic from a collaboration between NASPA and Glass Half Full Consulting!
Honoring Colleagues who are Retiring from NASPA
The conference marked the upcoming retirements of two great friends and colleagues from the NASPA staff- James Stascavage and Kevin Kruger. I still remember connecting with Kevin just weeks after starting my first VP role. His kindness and reassurance were invaluable, and he actively encouraged me to get more involved and engaged with NASPA. He also invited me to be on his advisory board- the James E. Scott Academy for the past 4 years. James has also been a constant source of support throughout my journey. He's been my connector to opportunities, a sounding board for ideas, and a genuinely kind friend. From IAVPSA22 and IAVPSA24 to the Future of Student Affairs Taskforce, James E. Scott Academy, and Colleague Conversations, James has been there for me every step of the way. Kevin and James share a deep passion for nurturing service and volunteers at all levels. They've left an undeniable mark on our field, and their absence will surely be felt. I wish them both a well-deserved retirement filled with fun and adventure!
Empowering Leaders Through Tailored Consulting
In partnership with NASPA, I served as an Executive Consultant in Residence at the conference. These consultations offered a glimpse into the diverse challenges and opportunities facing our field and the VPSA role in particular. From restructuring organizations to navigating presidential transitions, these conversations revealed the complexities of leadership in higher education. But they also highlighted the resilience, adaptability, and vision of our community's leaders. I look forward to continuing my consulting relationship with many of these VPSA's in the months ahead.
Celebrating Milestones and Looking Forward
The 75th anniversary of MSU's Student Affairs Administration graduate program was a moment of reflection and pride. We not only celebrated our past but also looked forward to future innovations and achievements. I especially appreciated the time I was able to spend with Dr. Jon Cleveland (USC) at the reception. We were in grad school together and hold each other in great esteem. We jokingly told the current grad students that we were in the inagural class 75 years ago!
The Power of Connection
What truly stood out at NASPA was the power of connection. Reconnecting with cherished colleagues and meeting new ones has always been a core part of these conferences. Every interaction, from reunions with old friends to conversations with new acquaintances, was a reminder of the collective passion, dedication, and creativity that drive our field forward. I chose to spend as much time as possible pouring into folks who are driving campus engagement and will be the future institutional leaders in our field. I'm sad that I didnt get a chance to reconnect with everyone I had hoped to- Melissa Shivers, Kevin Stensberg, Gourjoine Wade, Lynsey Listau, Yvonne Hernandez Friedman, and SO MANY others. It's such a large and spread out conference so I am sorry that we missed each other. Let's grab virtual coffee soon!
*On a personal note, my cousing Richard was in Seattle for a conference at the same time and we were able to meet for dinner. He lives in New Zealand and we have not seen each other in person since High School. What an amazing gift to be able to spend time with him after so many years and to have him see me in my element surrounded by friends and colleagues.
Looking to the Horizon
The conference may be over, but the journey of learning, connecting, and leading continues. With a heart full of gratitude and a mind brimming with ideas, I'm excited for what lies ahead - for myself, for my colleagues, and for the future of student affairs.
I'll see you in NOLA in 2025!
Here are just a few pictures from NASPA24:

with great friend James Stascavage!

Some of my consulting materials in the VPSA Lounge

with great friend and fellow Consultant Adam Cebulski

Check out our "Happy Retirement" stickers for James!

with my BFF & one of the smartest #SApros I know- Pato Lin-Steadman!

with Lorraine Acker (U of I colleague) & fellow Consultant Angela Batista!

Opening session dream team here- José Riera, Jen Pickard, John Mark Day, & Adam Cebulski

First selfie of the conference with Treon McClendon!

Reuniting with my cousin Richard from NZ!
I posted many more pictures on LinkedIn.
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