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  • Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 03/12/2025 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

    This webinar will explore the unique challenges faced by asexual individuals regarding sexual and interpersonal violence, addressing the erasure and ostracism they often encounter within queer communities. Through a focus on visibility, inclusive practices, and advocacy, participants will gain tools to support asexual individuals in LGBTQ+ spaces and foster a more inclusive environment for all.

    We will examine the unique challenges faced by asexual individuals, particularly regarding sexual and interpersonal violence. We will highlight how asexuality is often erased, or even ostracized within queer communities, leading to misconceptions and a lack of visibility that can leave survivors without adequate support. By addressing these intersections, we aim to foster a more inclusive conversation around consent, trauma, and identity, ultimately advocating for a more supportive environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.

    Learning Outcomes
    • Define asexuality, recognize prevalent misconceptions, and assess current representation in media and culture to deepen understanding of its visibility within the LGBTQ+ community. 
    • Understand the impact of erasure on conversations around sexual violence and interpersonal dynamics in the Ace community, exploring the unique vulnerabilities asexual individuals face.
    • Identify actionable strategies to support asexual individuals in queer spaces, including inclusive language and practices, while amplifying asexual voices in advocacy to foster inclusive, supportive communities.

    Stephanie Foran

    Assistant Director of CARE

    Kansas State University

    Stephanie (Steph) Foran is theAssistant Director of CARE at Kansas State University. She is a nationally credentialed Victim Advocatethrough the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) and has over 8.5years of field experience. She received her BA in Political Science from RiderUniversity in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and her Global MA in InternationalRelations from Webster University. Steph's areas of expertise include digitalinterpersonal violence and media literacy, and she is passionate about framinggender-based violence as a critical human rights issue.

  • Contains 9 Component(s) Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/04/2025 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    Prepare to become a Certified Student Affairs Educator with the Certification Exam Prep Moderated Study Program! This five-week exam prep program for the Certified Student Affairs Educator (CSAEd) core exam includes two live, moderated study sessions plus a library of on-demand and self-paced exam prep resources.

    Prepare to become a Certified Student Affairs Educator with the Certification Exam Prep Moderated Study Program! This five-week exam prep program for the Certified Student Affairs Educator (CSAEd) core exam includes two live, moderated study sessions plus a library of on-demand and self-paced exam prep resources. Through this enhanced exam prep program, you will connect with other prospective certificants, learn from colleagues who have taken and passed the exam, and brush up on your student affairs knowledge and skills through a series of self-paced study modules.

  • Contains 5 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/26/2024 at 4:00 AM (EST)

    MENASA Multaqas are one-hour member engagement sessions that create a space for student affairs professionals in the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia area to engage and connect, and to build a culture of support, collaboration, innovation, research, and professional development.

    MENASA Multaqas are one-hour member engagement sessions that create a space for student affairs professionals in the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia area to engage and connect, and to build a culture of support, collaboration, innovation, research, and professional development.

    This session will include engaging exercises, tips, and worksheets that will engage participants and, therefore, increase their engagement not only in the session but also with students back in universities. Topics covered will be nature therapy, ecofeminism, and sustainability at its core.

    Work-life harmony is all about creating a lifestyle that enables you to pursue your professional goals while also maintaining healthy personal relationships, fulfilling hobbies, and a healthy lifestyle topped with nature therapy which is very important in the universities for students, staff and faculty. Achieving this can be challenging, but it’s essential for our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. From cultural norms and work laws to health and wellness initiatives, there’s a lot that will be discussed via presentation which will also focus on sustainability and ec-friendliness in daily life.

    This session will give participants tips on taking the time to prioritize self-care, exercise, and relaxation, which can help reduce stress and improve physical and mental health. Investing time and energy into extra-curriculars, whether spending time with family and friends or pursuing hobbies and interests, can enhance your connection and happiness. This can lead to better relationships with those around us, creating a positive cycle of well-being and fulfillment. Furthermore, a good work-life balance can increase productivity. When you have a fulfilling life outside of class/lecture/work, you’re more likely to feel energized and motivated at work. 

    Vinnie Mather

    Dean of Students

    Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence

    An educationist by profession, Mrs. Vinnie Mathur is an Author, Craft Trainer, Workshop Consultant and environmentalist. Vinnie specializes in conducting best out of waste workshops, in other words converting waste into wealth in her free time. Vinnie has written various articles in leading newspaper and magazines and books. In her early career, she has been associated with St. Mary’s School & Delhi Public School, New Delhi and also worked with the Galgotias Group of Educational Institutions as Dean-Student Affairs & Clubs. Presently she heads external relations at the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence. Ms. Mathur has done her M.B.A., B.Ed. and diploma courses in Child Development & Psychology and Nursery and Primary Teachers Training. She has also written numerous books for children. Her very own popular series of Do It Yourself Craft is a big hit. She has a credit of more than 25 books.


    At Shiv Nadar University, she looks after Student Development Programmes initially which included a series of workshops, seminars etc for students on various topics. She headed student clubs of the University . She has to her credit the able organization and execution of Orienation programme, Farewells, Freshers Party, Business Fest, Club activities, Blood Donation Camps etc. Under her able guidance students have represented the University in various Inter- College Fests and competitions across the country and have brought laurels to the University. The student clubs , more than 50 under her are in various categories- Social, Cultural, Technical, Management and Sports. Theatre, Music, Dance, Technical and management clubs are a few to name.

     

     

     

    Osamah Al Nammary (Moderator)

    Residence Hall Coordinator

    American University of Sharjah

    Osamah Al Nammary is a Residence Hall Coordinator at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. He has worked within the student services sector for the past seven years. Starting his career in student services in Canada, he pursued the skills and knowledge to assist students in pursuing their degrees effectively. During that time, mental health and wellness have become a critical factor in Osamah’s career due to the rising awareness of the importance of mental health within the world and its effect on individuals. Promoting wellness and mental health has become a key factor within Osamah’s career in student services, promoting wellness and self-care within universities, and educating students of its importance.

  • New
    Contains 1 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 11/20/2024 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    There is growing recognition that drivers involved in fatal crashes are often engaged in multiple risky behaviors – not wearing a seat belt, speeding, distraction, and driving impaired. This webinar highlights a research project sponsored by the Traffic Safety Culture Pooled Fund to understand factors associated with multiple risky driving behaviors and develop and test a brief intervention to reduce these multiple risky driving behaviors and improve overall driving safety.

    There is growing recognition that drivers involved in fatal crashes are often engaged in multiple risky behaviors – not wearing a seat belt, speeding, distraction, and driving impaired. This webinar highlights a research project sponsored by the Traffic Safety Culture Pooled Fund to understand factors associated with multiple risky driving behaviors and develop and test a brief intervention to reduce these multiple risky driving behaviors and improve overall driving safety.

    Learning Outcomes

    1. Learn about the factors associated with multiple risky driving behaviors like impulsivity and risk perceptions
    2. Analyze results from a randomized control trial to reduce multiple risky driving behaviors in young adults
    3. Understand the skills young adults can grow and strategies they can use to reduce the harms related to engaging in multiple risky driving behaviors  

     Plus, earn CASEd Continuing Education Credit. 

    Kari Finley

    Director and Research Scholar, Center for Health and Safety Culture

    Montana State University

    Dr. Kari Finley is a Research Scholar and the Director of the Center for Health and Safety Culture. Dr. Finley holds a Ph.D. in Human Services from Walden University and a master’s degree in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Colorado State University. At the Center, Dr. Finley’s key roles include research, scientific writing, and tool development, and she is a principal investigator for multiple projects.

    As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Dr. Finley’s previous clinical experience in the mental health and addiction fields brings expertise in behavior change to research projects that seek to make a difference at the national, state, and community level on issues including substance misuse, child maltreatment, and traffic safety. She is a contributing author in the book: Traffic Safety Culture: Theory, Foundation, and Application, and is a published author in multiple academic journals. Dr. Finley has been a keynote speaker and has presented at national and international conferences.

  • Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/19/2024 at 3:00 PM (EST)

    Drs. Jason Pina and Amy Hecht will present insights from their latest book, The Next Act: Realigning Your Mindset, Purpose, and Career (NASPA, 2024). They will delve into the evolving landscape of student affairs, highlighting how professionals have navigated career challenges and discovered pathways for personal and professional renewal. Amid growing campus demands, shifting staff expectations, stagnant salaries, limited advancement opportunities, and the lasting impacts of a global pandemic, many in the field are reevaluating their roles. Some have explored unconventional career paths, others have pivoted away from student affairs entirely, while some are reassessing past sacrifices and future aspirations. This webinar will showcase inspiring career possibilities for student affairs professionals, with contributions from leaders who have redefined the boundaries of the profession and pioneered new avenues that may be unfamiliar to many in the field.

    Drs. Jason Pina and Amy Hecht will present insights from their latest book, The Next Act: Realigning Your Mindset, Purpose, and Career (NASPA, 2024). They will delve into the evolving landscape of student affairs, highlighting how professionals have navigated career challenges and discovered pathways for personal and professional renewal. Amid growing campus demands, shifting staff expectations, stagnant salaries, limited advancement opportunities, and the lasting impacts of a global pandemic, many in the field are reevaluating their roles. Some have explored unconventional career paths, others have pivoted away from student affairs entirely, while some are reassessing past sacrifices and future aspirations. This webinar will showcase inspiring career possibilities for student affairs professionals, with contributions from leaders who have redefined the boundaries of the profession and pioneered new avenues that may be unfamiliar to many in the field.

    Contributing presenters include Ainsley Carry, vice-president, students, University of British Columbia; Gage Paine, associate dean for academic affairs and clinical associate professor, Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Jeanna Mastrodicasa, senior associate vice president for agriculture and natural resources, University of Florida; and Ana Rossetti, consulting manager, Huron Consulting Group.

    Jason Pina

    Senior Vice President for University Life

    New York University

    Jason B. Pina is senior vice president for university life at New York University. He has served higher education for over 30 years, most recently in senior student affairs, enrollment, and diversity roles at Ohio University, Bridgewater State University, the University of Rhode Island, and Roger Williams University. As a former NASPA Board of Directors member, he was the 2019 and 2020 NASPA Annual Conference Chair. He has been recognized with several awards, including the NASPA Foundation’s 2022 Pillar of the Profession Award, and the Ohio College Personnel Association’s Phillip A. Tripp Award for Distinguished Service in 2020 and the Gerald L. Saddlemire Mentor Award in 2019. In addition to serving on national higher education boards and various institute faculty, Pina has authored numerous articles and book chapters and coedited AVP: Leading from the Unique Role of Associate/Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs (NASPA, 2016). He holds an EdD in educational leadership from Johnson & Wales University, master’s and specialist’s degrees in educational leadership from the University of Northern Colorado, and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Occidental College.

    Amy Hecht

    Vice President of Student Affairs

    Florida State University

    Amy Hecht is the vice president of student affairs at Florida State University. Before that, she was the vice president of student affairs at the College of New Jersey and has held positions at Auburn University, Temple University, Cabrini College, and the University of Pennsylvania. A professional in the field of student affairs since 2001, Hecht has served on executive leadership teams in student affairs organizations and has extensive experience leading and managing in higher education. She is a colead facilitator with LeaderShape, a national nonprofit organization, and has held volunteer leadership positions with NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. Hecht launched her career with Alpha Chi Omega national sorority, serving as a traveling consultant, and was awarded Alpha Chi Omega’s Woman of Distinction honor in 2018. Hecht serves as the Florida Region Director for the Children’s Heart Foundation and is a member of Leadership Florida’s 40th Cornerstone Class. She has published book chapters and articles focused on organizational learning, change, executive transitions, and the role of assistant and associate vice presidents in student affairs organizations. Hecht earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in mass communications and a master’s degree and doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Pennsylvania.

  • Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/18/2024 at 2:00 PM (EST)

    The NASPA 2024 Top Issues results provide a snapshot of what senior leaders view as key priorities on their campuses this year. This member briefing will provide an overview of the top-ranked issues—including centering student voice, expanding access to mental health and well-being supports, facilitating cross-campus collaboration, and more—and examine how these trends shape student support services. A key portion of the presentation will highlight the prevalence of issues related to health, safety, and well-being in holistic student support efforts on campus and how institutions are leveraging NASPA’s extensive resources and frameworks to strengthen their responses to these issues. Join us for this session on translating NASPA’s research findings into actionable strategies to support student success.

    The NASPA 2024 Top Issues results provide a snapshot of what senior leaders view as key priorities on their campuses this year. This member briefing will provide an overview of the top-ranked issues—including centering student voice, expanding access to mental health and well-being supports, facilitating cross-campus collaboration, and more—and examine how these trends shape student support services. A key portion of the presentation will highlight the prevalence of issues related to health, safety, and well-being in holistic student support efforts on campus and how institutions are leveraging NASPA’s extensive resources and frameworks to strengthen their responses to these issues. Join us for this session on translating NASPA’s research findings into actionable strategies to support student success.

    Alexa Wesley Chamberlain

    Director of Research and Strategy

    NASPA

    Alexa Wesley Chamberlain is the director of research and strategy at NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. Her research portfolio spans a variety of topics related to advancing student-centered redesign of campus policies, practices, and systems. Prior to joining NASPA, she focused on federal postsecondary education policy and institutional finance strategies through internships at Lumina Foundation, the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, and the U.S. Education Department. Alexa holds a master’s degree in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

    Jennifer E. Henkle

    Director, Sexual Violence Prevention and Response

    NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education

    Jennifer E. Henkle, MSW, LMSW (she/her/hers) is the director for sexual violence prevention and response. Jennifer oversees the Culture of Respect initiative and guides NASPA's work as a collaborative partner towards resolving systems of gender- and power-based violence. She is a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Virginia and has formerly worked in residence life, survivor advocacy and respondent services, campus sexual violence prevention and education, and higher education case management.

  • Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/14/2024 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    Campus life is more dynamic and more complicated than ever. Creating a satisfying and successful experience for all students amid an uncertain world requires a multi-faceted and intentional approach. Ensuring the varied needs of so many individuals are addressed in the best way possible requires a toolkit full of proven practices, technology, and tips. Hear how your peers have developed robust support structures to intervene and advance the student experience at any given moment.

    Campus life is more dynamic and more complicated than ever. Creating a satisfying and successful experience for all students amid an uncertain world requires a multi-faceted and intentional approach. Ensuring the varied needs of so many individuals are addressed in the best way possible requires a toolkit full of proven practices, technology, and tips. Hear how your peers have developed robust support structures to intervene and advance the student experience at any given moment.

    Learning Outcomes:

    • Address mental health struggles by equipping students with tools to pursue effective self-care, stress management, and healthy relationship-building.
    • Employ an expansive approach to foster an environment where hazing and other types of misconduct cannot flourish.
    • Identify technology tools that align and support the needs of this generation of students.

    Matt Gregory, Ph.D.

    Dean of Students & Vice Provost for Student Life

    Texas Tech University

    Matt Gregory joined the Texas Tech University Community in July of 2016 where he serves as the Dean of Students and Vice Provost for Student Life.  At Texas Tech, Matt’s supervision portfolio consists of departments across Student Life, Campus Life and Student Wellbeing. Student Life departments are focused on the lived experience of approximately 40,000 Red Raider students. Matt has 28 years of experience working within the university environment including student housing, fraternity and sorority life, campus law enforcement, student conduct, and students of concern/BIT. Matt embraces a student-centered approach and prioritizes relationships across campus to enhance the student experience.

    Matt is a Past President and past Secretary of the Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA) Board of Directors. Matt has taught courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels in women and gender studies and higher education administration. He volunteers as a Council Director for Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity and is a certified Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) instructor.

    Matt has a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Administration from Southern Illinois University, a Master of Education in Counseling and Student Affairs from Western Kentucky University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences from Southern Illinois University.

    Dr. KC White

    Vice President for Student Affairs

    University of North Alabama

    Dr. KC White joined the University of North Alabama (UNA) in July 2022 and serves as the Vice President for Student Affairs. UNA is a public regional institution located in Florence, AL with an enrollment of over 10,000 students. With progressive leadership roles at large public universities, as well as private institutions, KC and her teams strive to provide a student-centered experience to support their academic pursuits, career aspirations and to empower their success.

    Working with organizational teams which support the institution’s mission, purpose and values while producing results drives KC’s purpose and passion. KC demonstrates her commitment to the growth and development of students by encouraging and challenging them to lead with integrity and compassion and she strives to create campuses where all students experience a sense of belonging, affiliation, and purpose.

    As an advocate for health and well-being, KC tries to create an environment that supports her colleagues and which fosters a sense of belonging, affiliation, and purpose.

    Dr. White holds a Doctor of Education degree from Florida State University, a Master’s of Education from the University of South Carolina, and a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Stetson University.

    Iliana Melendez

    Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students

    Coastal Carolina University

    Iliana joined Coastal Carolina University (CCU) in February 2023 and serves as the Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students. CCU Is a public liberal arts institution located in Conway, S.C., with an enrollment of over 11,000 students. 

     

    With over a decade of experience in higher education, Iliana has held pivotal roles at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, Texas State University, and the University of Texas at Austin. She is a certified constructive dialogue facilitator and is actively involved in NASPA, serving as the South Carolina representative for the NASPA Region III Latino Knowledge Community.

     

    As a first-generation college graduate, Iliana is passionate about mentoring students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. She holds degrees from St. Edward’s University and Texas State University. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her wife and daughter.

    David Chadwick

    Founder and CEO

    RealResponse

    David Chadwick founded RealResponse in 2015 in Charlotte, North Carolina, following graduation from Valparaiso University where he played Division 1 basketball.

    During college, Chadwick recognized that a positive student-athlete experience had everything to do with culture, strong support services, and the relationships formed with coaches and teammates. This insight led to the launch of RealResponse.

    Founded in 2015, RealResponse provides a secure, confidential platform for individuals to provide feedback on difficult or sensitive issues within an organization. The technology ensures voices are heard and people are empowered – with real-time, two-way anonymous communications, surveys, compliance support, competitive benchmarks, and metric data. These insights enhance communications between participants and their respective organizations and provide valuable opportunities to turn feedback into positive change.

    In March 2024, RealResponse was named to Fast Company’s Annual List of the World’s Most Innovative Companies. Charlotte Business Journal named RealResponse as one of the “Fifty Most Innovative Companies in the Region” in 2021, and RealResponse has been recognized by The New York Times, the Associated Press and other national media organizations.

    David and his family reside in Charlotte, North Carolina where he was born and raised.

  • Contains 5 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/13/2024 at 11:00 AM (EST)

    MENASA Women Wednesdays are monthly one-hour member engagement sessions (in English or Arabic) highlighting the voices of women in student affairs from around the world. Through this online series of discussions, MENASA members will have the opportunity to gain various perspectives of the student affairs profession through the varying lenses of women in the field. Session presenters will share their story of how they have come to hold their current position in higher education, lessons learned along the way, insights they have gained, and a time for participants to ask questions.

    Maha El Moslemany

    Senior Director, Career Center

    The American University in Cairo

    With more than 17 years of experience as a career educator, Maha El Moslemany oversees the development and implementation of the full range of career services and programs at AUC’s Career Center including employer engagement, career advising, and experiential learning. Over time, El Moslemany was a catalyst of change designing and introducing new programs/services to increase the hiring venues of AUC’s Career Center offered to students/alumni and employers to enhance AUC’s employability rates and increase AUCians’ career readiness easing their transition to the world of work.

    Her purposeful passion is enabling Millennials and GenZ's to become the best version of their professional selves. She consciously shifted her career from advertising to career education with a focus on coaching, training, capacity building, and enhancing AUCians’ career preparation toolkits. She has been a Career Development Facilitator Instructor (CDFI) since 2010 and has designed and delivered modules of the FCD curriculum to certify Career Service Providers (CSPs) in addition to coaching and mentoring CSPs across Egypt.

    Professional affiliations include membership in the National Career Development Association (NCDA) and the National Association for Colleges and Employers (NACE).

    El Moslemany graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication with a double minor in psychology and business administration from AUC.

    Tisha Grande (Moderator)

    Associate Director of Student Recruitment

    King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

    Tisha currently works at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) as the Associate Director of Student Recruitment. Her main responsibilities include international student recruitment, educational partnerships, short-term programs, and marketing. Prior to this role, Tisha worked at the university leading Saudi graduate recruitment and development efforts. Tisha is excited to continue highlighting the rapid growth taking place within Saudi Arabia and the educational opportunities available.

    MENASA Women Wednesdays are monthly one-hour member engagement sessions (in English or Arabic) highlighting the voices of women in student affairs from around the world. Through this online series of discussions, MENASA members will have the opportunity to gain various perspectives of the student affairs profession through the varying lenses of women in the field. Session presenters will share their story of how they have come to hold their current position in higher education, lessons learned along the way, insights they have gained, and a time for participants to ask questions. 

  • Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/12/2024 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    The College of Education & Human Development at Texas A&M University established the Marilyn Kent Byrne Student Success Center in 2007 to support the academic, personal, and professional growth of students. In this session you will learn about the myriad resources, student programs and how the Byrne Center team collaborates with stakeholders both on and off campus to support students during their undergraduate journey.

    The goal of this presentation is to support professionals as they develop Student Success Centers and the policies and programming that are implemented within these centers to support students at their respective institutions. 

    To address the current challenges in higher education, it is imperative that colleges and universities undertake a cultural and structural shift devoted to becoming “student ready.” (White, 2016) These challenges include declines in enrollment across all sectors of higher education (National Student Clearing House Research Center, 2019); an increase in first year students required to take remedial education (Jimenez et al., 2016); and students needing greater levels of socio-emotional support to increase student achievement (jones & Khan, 2017). Research indicates that collaboration between academic affairs and student affairs supports student learning and success (Frost et al., 2010; Kezar, 2001; Kuh, 1996; Love & Love, 1995; Nesheim et al., 2007). Effective collaborations can manifest in a variety of ways, such as residential learning communities (Brower & Inkelas, 2010), assessment (Banta & Kuh, 1998), and new student orientation (Kezar, 2001). These collective ideas can be a part of Student Success Centers that support the retention, and persistence of students within an individual college at a university or as a student success center that supports all students at an institution. The presenters will share their current work and best practices along with barriers.

    The Marilyn Kent Byrne Student Success Center’s personnel, resources & programming available, technology, and key partnerships on and off campus will also be discussed.

    Finally, we will have a discussion on the growing field of “Student Success” within higher education and how this term closely aligns with Student Success Centers.  

    Learning Outcomes:

    • Learn key programming and resources that can be a part of a student success center.   
    • Learn about partnerships between student affairs, academic affairs and community stakeholders to support student success on their campus.
    • Learn budget opportunities to start a student success center.

    Kelley O’Neal

    Executive Director, Marilyn Kent Byrne Student Success Center

    Texas A&M University

    As the Executive Director of the Marilyn Kent Byrne Student Success Center for the College of Education & Human Development at Texas A&M University, Kelley leads all retention and persistence efforts for the close to 5,000 undergraduate students enrolled in CEHD. This includes leading the programming for students on academic probation, first-generation student programming, and programming to support the leadership development of students within the college. With experience working with first-gen students and minoritized populations at a two-time ASPEN Award finalist HSI community college, a small private HSI institution, and now at a large Tier I Research Institution he has been involved in creating and implementing multiple programs to support students holistically. Kelley is a current doctoral student, the past Chair of the Advocacy Group for FirstGen Forward (NASPA - Center For First-Generation Student Success), the Co-creator of the Black First-gen Collective, and the Co-Chair for Professional Development for the NASPA Knowledge Community Student Affairs Partnering with Academic Affairs. 

    Dr. Joseph Sanchez

    Program Manager

    Texas A&M University

    Dr. Joseph Sanchez was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M-San Antonio, followed by a Master’s degree in Adult Education from Texas A&M-College Station, and an Ed.D. in Developmental Education Administration from Sam Houston State University. A third-generation educator, Dr. Sanchez has dedicated the past 14 years to higher education, contributing to enrollment management, recruitment, advising, and student success. Currently, he serves as the Program Manager for the Byrne Student Success Center, overseeing learning communities and academic coaching initiatives within the College of Education & Human Development. Dr. Sanchez is also a proud father of three daughters: Cecilia, Juliana, and Liliana.

    Victor Castillo

    Assistant Director Student Services

    Texas A&M University

    Victor Alfonso Castillo joined CEHD as the Assistant Director for the Byrne Student Success Center in September 2024. Born and raised in Bryan/College Station, TX, Victor earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Texas A&M University (TAMU). After completing his undergraduate degree, he spent about ten years advising and managing programs for first-generation and low-income students in multiple roles at TAMU. During this time, he also earned a Master of Science in Educational Administration in Higher Education from TAMU. Victor is passionate about working with first-generation and low-income students because he identifies with their experiences. He draws on his own background to guide his students, helping them navigate their educational journey in ways he himself had to. My primary role is to support and promote student success both inside and outside of the classroom.

    Therese Wales

    Administrative Coordinator & Student Success Advocate

    Texas A&M University

    Therese Wales earned her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communication and Journalism from Texas A&M University in 2022. As an undergraduate student, she worked in Development as an Administrative Intern and Program Aide. She has planned and coordinated many large events for the College of Liberal Arts and the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M. She now acts as the Administrative Coordinator and Student Success Advocate for the Byrne Student Success Center.

    Destiny Andrews

    Graduate Assistant - Byrne Student Success Center

    Texas A&M University

    Destiny Andrews transferred from a community college, Temple College before earning a BS degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. She received her Master’s in Adult and Higher Education from University of Houston-Victoria. She has worked in higher education for approximately 7 years with professional experience in scholarships and financial aid, recruitment & onboarding, advising & academic coaching, and worked as a Development Coordinator in the Foundation at the College of the Mainland. Her journey has now brought her back to Texas A&M University as she is currently working towards her PhD in Higher Education Administration and holds a graduate assistantship in the Byrne Student Success Center. “I have served in many different roles carrying one common goal, being of service to students."

    Joycelyn Anderson

    Professional Counselor IV

    Texas A&M University

    Joycelyn Anderson, LPC-S, NCC, serves as the Embedded Professional Counselor IV in the Byrne Student Success Center. Joycelyn approaches therapeutic individual and group counseling from a multifaceted viewpoint, being both gentle and passionate when working with emerging adults at Texas A&M University. Her clinical interests include interpersonal awareness, holistic personal growth/identity development, self-worth/self-esteem, and performance issues. Understanding the competitive nature of credentialing examinations and the pressure applicants face, Joycelyn employs a behavioral blend of solution-focused brief, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approaches. She is dedicated to creating a positive, safe environment for all Aggies.

    Her research focuses on examining active help-seeking behavior in first-generation college students, the experiences and outcomes of first-generation students, networking institutional resources for strengthened mental health support of college students, and organizational leadership within embedded mental health university counseling settings.

    A proud first-generation college graduate, Joycelyn is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at South College and has earned an M.A. in Professional Counseling, an M.A. in  School Counseling from Amberton University, and a B.M.E. from Alcorn State University. She has completed clinical training in Counselor Supervision and has served as a doctoral internship administrative group supervisor.

  • Contains 5 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/12/2024 at 4:00 AM (EST)

    MENASA Multaqas are one-hour member engagement sessions that create a space for student affairs professionals in the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia area to engage and connect, and to build a culture of support, collaboration, innovation, research, and professional development.

    MENASA Multaqas are one-hour member engagement sessions that create a space for student affairs professionals in the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia area to engage and connect, and to build a culture of support, collaboration, innovation, research, and professional development.

    Join us to learn about how the American University of Sharjah supports its international students who live in the residential halls. The International Buddy Program fosters a sense of community among international students through intentional pairing, a buddy checklist, and monthly socials.

    The presenters will introduce their institution and share insight into the student population living on campus. The International Buddy Program is an intentionally designed initiative to provide peer-to-peer support between new incoming international students and returning international students living on campus. This presentation will explain how the program came to be, how it has been going, and how we hope to improve it. There will also be an opportunity to hear from other institutions about similar programs they are implementing or want to implement. 

    Manal Ammagui

    Residential Hall Coordinator

    American University of Sharjah

    Manal Ammagui began her student affairs journey during her undergraduate years as a Resident Assistant in the halls on campus at the University of South Florida (USF) where she also participated in numerous student affairs conferences. Manal continued at USF to pursue a Master of Arts in French while serving as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator her first year and then as the inaugural Graduate Assistant for Residential Student Success her second year. She stayed in Florida for two more years at Stetson University where she was a Residential Life Coordinator and developed their Residential Curriculum thanks to her previous experience and passion for student development and leadership in the residential halls.

    Manal has now been at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) as a Residential Hall Coordinator, the first-ever position of its kind at AUS. While in the region, Manal joined the MENASA-NASPA board in 2022 under the Professional Development Committee and then continued the following year through the Conference Team for the 18th MENASA-NASPA Conference. Manal is now the Co-Chair for the 19th MENASA-NASPA Conference.

    Amar Granulo

    Residential Coordinator

    American University of Sharjah

    Amar Granulo is a Residential Coordinator at American University of Sharjah currently. He has a BA in international relations from Hood College in Maryland and an MA in higher education administration and student development from Shepherd University in West Virginia. Previously, he worked at Florida Atlantic University as an Operations Manager and as a Hall Director at Shepherd University.

    His scope of work mainly focuses on coordinating youth action programs for higher ed institutions and non profit organizations. He also offers guidance and support to all of his students and make sure that they become the best in their future careers.

    Osamah Al Nammary (Moderator)

    Residence Hall Coordinator

    American University of Sharjah

    Osamah Al Nammary is a Residence Hall Coordinator at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. He has worked within the student services sector for the past seven years. Starting his career in student services in Canada, he pursued the skills and knowledge to assist students in pursuing their degrees effectively. During that time, mental health and wellness have become a critical factor in Osamah’s career due to the rising awareness of the importance of mental health within the world and its effect on individuals. Promoting wellness and mental health has become a key factor within Osamah’s career in student services, promoting wellness and self-care within universities, and educating students of its importance.