In 2022, I had the privilege of serving as a faculty member at the NASPA Institute for Aspiring VPSA's, an experience that stands out as a highlight in my two+ decades-long career. Fast forward to late 2022, and the opportunity to co-direct the 2024 Institute alongside José-Luis Riera, VP for Student Life at the University of Delaware, marked the beginning of an unforgettable chapter in my professional journey.
Together with the incomparable support of NASPA staff member Pato Lin-Steadman and our fastastically talented faculty—Alvin Sturdivant, Pauline (Dobrowski) Burke, Shelia Higgs Burkhalter, Melissa Shivers, and Brian Mitra—we embarked on a mission to create an outstanding institute experience for this next generation of student affairs leaders. Our collective efforts culminated in a 4-day institute in Atlanta this January and became a transformative experiences for both participants and faculty.
In the days after the institute, we saw an outpouring of enthusiasm on LinkedIn, with our 90+ participants and our faculty members sharing their reflections and insights. The vibrant discourse not only highlighted the Institute's immediate impact but also reinforced the power of collective learning and professional growth through an institute-style experience.
Our recent interview with the "Student Affairs Now" podcast, hosted by Keith Edwards, served as a reflective moment for José and I. Recording the interview was an absolute delight, providing us with a platform to celebrate the incredible journey of our participants and acknowledge the expertise and dedication of our amazing faculty. Some themes that emerged during the podcast were: multiple pathways to the VPSA role, building confidene and competence for the role, the power of coaching, hope and healing, and exploring this challenging moment in higher education.
As I reflect on this remarkable experience, I'm reminded of the critical role that storytelling, identity conscious leadership, collaboration, and shared vision play in shaping powerful learning experiences. The NASPA Institute for Aspiring VPSA's is more than just a program—it's a catalyst for change, inspiring a new wave of leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of higher education with empathy, innovation, and resilience.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making the 2024 NASPA Institute a landmark event. As we look forward, I'm filled with hope for the future of student affairs, buoyed by the knowledge that our collective efforts have set the stage for impactful leadership and meaningful change in our field.
To the next generation of VPSA's and beyond, the journey is just beginning. Let's continue to inspire, challenge, and support one another, shaping a future for student affairs that is as diverse, engaged, and dynamic as the communities we serve.
The next IASVPSA will take place in 2026. Consider applying to attend or to serve as faculty.
Watch or listen to this episode of Student Affairs Now: https://studentaffairsnow.com/aspiring-VPSAs/
From our Host, Keith Edwards:
"In this conversation, Claire Brady and José-Luis Riera reflect on what they learned from planning, leading, and participating in the recent NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education Institute for Aspiring Vice Presidents for Student Affairs. They shared exploring the realities of the current moment in higher education, holding space to consider if this role is really for them, and examining multiple pathways for transition and success. Themes of hope and healing are paired with the challenges of higher education and this leadership role specifically."
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