Dr Aray Saniyazova is the Head of International Students and Scholars Services at Nazarbayev University (NU). She joined NU in 2011 as part of the first cohort of NU staff members and held positions of a senior manager of the Office of the President and adviser to the Department of Student Services. From October 1, 2020 till March 31, 2022 she worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the Laboratory of Student Experience of the Institute of Education at Higher School of Economics in Moscow, Russia and served as a SERU (Student Experience in the Research University) international research associate at the Center for Studies in Higher Education at UC Berkeley, USA.

Aray earned her Ph.D. in Education from NU Graduate School of Education (2017) and MEd. in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University (USA) (2011). Aray is a founding member of the university committee on campus climate and anti-harassment initiatives. She also serves as a NU representative for the Alliance of Universities "Towards the Enabling Academic Environment", a joint initiative with UNDP to work together to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

Aray is passionate about providing students with enriching and transformative experiences and has initiated numerous projects striving to empower students to succeed and inspire a culture of community.

Maria del Pilar Murguia was born in Bolivia and raised across Italy and Colombia! Her multicultural life experience allowed her to learn firsthand the challenges that living in different countries entails!  With a business background, Pilar started working in International Higher education since June 2003 at John Cabot University, Rome, Italy. The focus of her work at JCU was and is to establish and maintain an environment that supports learning, encourages a strong sense of community, and promotes student development through active engagement in university life. 

Pilar currently directly supervises the areas of Athletics, Outdoor Education Programs, Performing Arts, Student Activities and Trips, and Student Leadership Programs (OL, OSA, Student Clubs). She is part of the board of the Crisis Management Team of her University, as well as the University strategic planning committee.

Pilar is a certified Student Leadership Challenge practitioner, and her continued interest in intercultural leadership makes her curious about all new trends in the field. She is an active member AACUPI, NASPA, EUCA among other associations.

Mona Agha Maktabi is a Lebanese educator and advocate for inclusive education, serving as Director of the Next Step Program at the American University of Beirut. Her work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that young adults with intellectual disabilities have meaningful opportunities to learn, develop independence, and participate in society. Through Next Step, she advances inclusive university experiences, vocational preparation, and pathways to employment, promoting a vision of inclusion grounded in dignity, opportunity, and belonging.

Elma Atic is a Student Affairs practitioner with more than 15 years of experience in higher education, with a particular focus on academic advising and student success. At Qatar University, she works closely with academic advisors, Student Affairs professionals, and university stakeholders to continuously improve advising services and the overall student experience. Her work also includes mentorship, staff development, assessment, and strategic initiatives supporting student success.

Beyond Qatar University, Elma is actively involved with MENASA NASPA, contributing to initiatives that connect, develop, and support Student Affairs professionals across the region. Her professional interests include academic advising, mentorship, student success, professional development, and the evolving role of data and technology in higher education.

"Passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential, Heba Shaheen is dedicated to supporting student leaders in creating meaningful and lasting impact throughout their experiential learning journey at The American University in Cairo (AUC) and within their wider communities.

With over 16 years of professional experience, Heba began her career as a Quality Control Analyst in a multinational company after earning a BSc in Chemistry with a minor in Psychology. She later transitioned into higher education, pursuing her passion for student development, leadership, and well-being. She currently holds two master’s degrees and is pursuing a PhD in Global Public Health at AUC, with research interests focused on policy management and workplace well-being. Heba holds an MSc in Organizational Psychology from the University of London, with a focus on women’s leadership, workplace gender equity, and well-being, as well as an MA in International & Comparative Education from AUC, concentrating on research and policymaking, with a focus on Education for Sustainable Development. She is also a Certified Student Affairs Educator from the Higher Education Consortium for Student Affairs, with a concentration in Campus Activities. She is also a professional trainer and practitioner in personality, interest, and strengths assessments.
Heba’s career journey from Chemistry to Higher Education reflects her belief in the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Through the challenges and rewards of career transition, she continues to inspire others to embrace growth, resilience, and lifelong learning."

Ms. Wadad Youssef El Housseini started her career as in higher education as Instructor of Social Sciences at Balamand University in Lebanon where she taught for a decade. In 2001, she joined the American University of Beirut as Director of Student Activities. In 2009, she joined Qatar University as Consultant to VP of student affairs where she resumed the responsibility of Acting Director of Student Activities till May 2012. Her role entitled her to get involved in various strategic initiatives to ensure the success of Qatar University students. She is the chair of the Student Affairs Professional Development committee at Qatar University.

Founding member and former vice president for the IASAS (International Association of Student Affairs and Services). Member of the MENASA-NASPA board for 2020-2023. Recipient of the Wisdom Award of the Commission of Women’s Identities – ACPA in 2021. Interested in Leadership of Higher Education and Student Affairs, assessment and women role in higher education.

Well known for having her finger on the pulse of the region, Wadad continues to be an engaged advocate of professional development, and student affairs leadership in the Middle East.

With more than 29 years of experience in education across international universities and secondary schools, Dr. Sara L. Montero has served as Dean of Student Affairs at the American University in Dubai since 2019.

In this role, Dr. Montero leads a broad range of student services and advocates for student well-being, engagement, retention, and success. Drawing on extensive experience guiding students and teams through change and uncertainty, Dr. Montero will share practical insights on navigating uncertain periods while continuing to support students. Dr. Montero holds a Doctor of Education in Leadership in Higher Education from Gwynedd Mercy University and a master’s in human relations from the University of Oklahoma.

Malak Elmoh is a Career Services Program Manager in the Office of External Relations at Georgetown University in Qatar. In her previous role as a Student Development Officer in the Office of Student Affairs, she played a key role in designing and implementing student programming, while also mentoring and advising student clubs, the Student Government Association (SGA), and the broader student community. A proud GU-Q alumna, Malak also holds a Master of Public Policy from Hamad bin Khalifa University, where she concentrated on education policy. Her experience extends beyond academia, having worked on high-profile events like the Doha Forum and with Memac Ogilvy's Public Relations team, where she developed a robust network in Doha. In her current role, Malak focuses on supporting students and recent graduates through career coaching and graduate school advising as well as further departmental initiatives such as professional development workshops, employer events and career fairs.

Ms. Wadad Youssef El Housseini started her career as in higher education as Instructor of Social Sciences at Balamand University in Lebanon where she taught for a decade. In 2001, she joined the American University of Beirut as Director of Student Activities. In 2009, she joined Qatar University as Consultant to VP of student affairs where she resumed the responsibility of Acting Director of Student Activities till May 2012. Her role entitled her to get involved in various strategic initiatives to ensure the success of Qatar University students. She is the chair of the Student Affairs Professional Development committee at Qatar University.

Founding member and former vice president for the IASAS (International Association of Student Affairs and Services). Member of the MENASA-NASPA board for 2020-2023. Recipient of the Wisdom Award of the Commission of Women’s Identities – ACPA in 2021. Interested in Leadership of Higher Education and Student Affairs, assessment and women role in higher education.

Well known for having her finger on the pulse of the region, Wadad continues to be an engaged advocate of professional development, and student affairs leadership in the Middle East.

Chris Pastore joined the University of Arizona Office of the General Counsel in September 2019. His practice areas include employment (staff and faculty), compliance, student affairs, first amendment, and collegiate athletics. 

Prior to joining the University, Mr. Pastore was Of Counsel at Ogletree Deakins, an international labor and employment law firm, where he represented employers in state and federal lawsuits and in administrative investigations and litigation. Mr. Pastore also provided advice and counsel to employers on a wide range of employment law matters, with an emphasis on occupational safety and health. 

Mr. Pastore earned his law degree from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law in 2008 and his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Arizona in 2004. Mr. Pastore is a member of the State Bars of Arizona and Nevada and is a member of the National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA).

Chrissy Lieberman is the Dean of Students at the University of Arizona. She joined the Dean of Students Office in 2012 as an associate dean overseeing Student Assistance & Accountability and was appointed Dean of Students in Spring 2025 after serving in the role as interim during the 2024-2025 academic year.

Lieberman plays a pivotal leadership role in campus health and safety and fostering an environment that emphasizes community and well-being. In her role, she offers leadership for the campus community in navigating the First Amendment, conflict management, critical incidents, behavioral intervention, student rights and responsibilities, restorative practice, and student well-being. The Dean of Students Office also provides recognition and support for hundreds of student organizations and leadership and engagement opportunities across the university.

A first-generation student and two-time University of Arizona graduate, Lieberman holds a B.A. in Education and an M.A. in Art Education. She is committed to fostering a campus culture where students can excel academically, socially, and personally.

Dr. Betzabel Martinez Bleech has been working with student equity and achievement programs within the California Community Colleges system for the past seven years. She is currently the Director of Student Equity and Success Programs at Citrus Colleges overseeing Black Scholars, Mi Gente Scholars, and Rising Scholars (formerly incarcerated students). In this role she has overseen the writing and implementation of the college’s 2025-2028 Student Equity and Achievement Program Plan, as mandated by the state of California. Previously, she served as the Director of Equity and Inclusion at Cerro Coso Community College. In this role she oversaw the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion focused programs for the following student populations: Black/African American, LGBTQ+, Native American, and Undocumented/Non-Citizen. Furthermore, Dr. Martinez Bleech serves as an adjunct faculty member in the University of La Verne’s Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership program. Dr. Martinez Bleech has been an active member of NASPA since 2016, and serves as the Region VI Community College Representative. Dr. Martinez Bleech holds a degree in statistical science from UC Santa Barbara, a masters in educational counseling from the University of Southern California, and a doctorate of education from CSU Fullerton.

Letitia Williams, Ph.D. serves as Vice President for Student Affairs at Morgan State University, where she provides strategic leadership for a broad Student Affairs portfolio focused on student success, well-being, engagement, learning and development, and career readiness. An educator and higher education leader with more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Williams has worked across the K–16 educational continuum and in higher education systems in both the United States and the Caribbean. Her career has spanned student and academic affairs, with a focus on strengthening the student experience, closing gaps in support and opportunity, and developing integrated approaches that help students persist, develop, and thrive. Her leadership is informed by experience working across different institutional and national contexts. A former Fulbright Fellow, Dr. Williams holds a Ph.D. in Education Policy from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Case Willoughby is a nationally recognized student affairs leader and Vice President for Student Affairs at Brightpoint Community College. Centering his work on student learning and success, he oversees academic advising, admissions, athletics, career services, financial aid, student conduct, and support services. At Butler County Community College, he spearheaded student success efforts that were credited with a doubling of student graduation rates.

His national leadership roles include serving on the NASPA James E. Scott Academy Board and teaching at NASPA’s Institute for New Vice Presidents of Student Affairs. Recognized as an ACPA Diamond Honoree, Case also co-authored the award-winning paper "Crafting a Culture for Student Success" (2020 National Symposium on Student Retention). He holds a Doctorate and Master's in Higher Education from Columbia University, alongside a Master's from NYU. Case resides near Richmond, VA, with his husband and two dogs.

Kim Bock, Ed.D., is the Director of First-Year Experience and Retention at Wartburg College. She has over a decade of experience in higher education, spanning academic advising, student success, first-year experience, and student transitions. Kim began her career as an academic advisor at Edgewood College and later served in leadership roles at St. Cloud State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Wartburg College.

Kim earned her B.A. in History and M.S. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Ed.D. in Postsecondary Education: Student Affairs from the University of Northern Iowa. As a first-generation college student, she is passionate about helping students feel supported and connected throughout their college experience. Her research and professional interests include first-year experience, retention, advising administration, and leadership development for higher education professionals.

Kevin Willis serves as part of the NASPA Membership Team to provide member support and customer service for NASPA. Kevin previously served in positions on campus in residence life and admissions before coming to NASPA in 2022. 

Emily Gray is a new professional with experience in leadership education, transition and support programs, and First Generation student success. Emily currently serves as the Co-Lead for Professional and Scholarly Development on the NASPA NPGS leadership team. She is deeply passionate about supporting emerging professionals in finding their home within Student Affairs. Emily recently graduated from Texas State University with a Masters of Education in Student Affairs in Higher Education. 

Currently serves as a Residence Hall Director at the University of Connecticut since fall 2022. Originally from Praia, Cabo Verde, he attended the University of Rhode Island for his masters and Bridgewater State University bachelors.

Marte Marshall is the Director of Residence Life & Conduct at Concordia University, St. Paul. Additionally, he is an EdD candidate studying belonging among male students at a faith-based institution and Co-Chair-Elect of the NASPA Black Diaspora Knowledge Community

Charlie Sloop (He/They) is a second-year graduate student pursuing a master's degree in Student Affairs Administration in the College of Education at Michigan State University. They currently work as a Graduate Assistant for Registered Student Organizations in the Office of Spartan Experiences. Charlie is a graduate of Virginia Tech with two bachelor's of art in theatre arts: performance and public relations. Charlie first explored student affairs by becoming an orientation leader and working across multiple functional areas. Charlie's main role prior to graduation was serving as a Hazing Prevention Specialist & Project Assistant to Student Engagement and Campus Life. Charlie began exploring NASPA through the NASPA Undergraduate Fellowship Program (NUFP), and now serves as a co-chair of the Communications Subcommittee on the NUFP Steering Committee, and a member of the Graduate Associate Program (GAP). Charlie's philosophy toward student affairs is to let your art forge a change amongst people to be curious and serve in lifelong learning.

Dr. Asha’ Jones serves as the Associate Director for Community, Access, and Professional Pathways at NASPA, where she leads initiatives supporting undergraduate and graduate students and emerging student affairs professionals, including the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program (NUFP) and Graduate Associate Program (GAP). With more than 17 years of experience across higher education and government, she is a scholar, speaker, mentor, and storyteller committed to creating pathways, cultivating community, and ensuring the voices and experiences of historically overlooked communities are heard. Dr. Jones earned her Ph.D. in Education, with research examining Black girlhood, Black womanhood, identity, education, and mentorship through critical autoethnography. Mentorship is at the heart of her work, and she is passionate about helping the next generation recognize their possibilities, find their voice, and bring somebody with them.

Darryl B. Holloman, PhD, serves as vice president for student affairs at Spelman College. He previously held leadership roles as associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Georgia State University and as assistant vice president for student life at Columbus State University. With more than 30 years of experience in higher education, Holloman’s career spans a broad portfolio encompassing student affairs administration, institutional governance, and faculty engagement. He has held faculty appointments at Rutgers University–Newark, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Columbus State University, and Georgia State University. Holloman is a published scholar with numerous articles and book chapters to his credit. His research explores how educational environments are shaped by cultural identity and difference. A frequent conference contributor, he has presented more than 80 research papers at national and international meetings, including those of NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE), the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Divisions F and J, the Association of College Unions International, NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, ACPA–College Student Educators International, and the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities.

Dr. Amelia Parnell is an accomplished higher education executive and an internationally recognized thought leader regarding current issues and emerging trends in the field. She is a passionate advocate for higher education as a tool for personal advancement and impact, and she seeks opportunities to partner with organizations and individuals who share her sincere commitment to centering students' needs.

In her prior role as vice president for research and policy for NASPA, Dr. Parnell led many of the association's scholarly and advocacy-focused activities and fostered partnerships with college administrators, researchers, grant makers, and other higher education professionals.

As a frequent keynote speaker at national and regional conferences, Amelia presents on topics related to higher education, student affairs, college affordability, student learning outcomes, and institutions' use of data and analytics. She has been quoted in The Wall Street Journal, the Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher Ed, and PBS NewsHour.

Amelia recently completed four years of service on the Board of Directors for EDUCAUSE, where she was Chair of the Finance & Investment Committee and the Audit Committee. She is also the past chair of the Higher Education Equity Network (HEEN), a collective impact network representing more than 25 organizations at the forefront of addressing racial equity in higher education.

Amelia enjoys opportunities to teach, and she is energized by making complex concepts easy to understand. She has had enriching engagements with students and peers as an adjunct instructor and lecturer and she is the author of the book, You Are a Data Person, which she wrote to encourage all higher education professionals to discover and embrace their unique data identity.

Amelia holds a Ph.D. in higher education from Florida State University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in business administration from Florida A & M University.