Decision-making in student affairs can be particularly challenging due to the personal ties that often accompany the work. The Decision-Making Framework (DMF) offers a structured approach with four phases to navigate complex decisions. The presenters explore updates to the DMF, focusing on using data to guide emotionally charged decisions. The presenters show how data helps reduce emotional biases for more effective decision-making by providing practical examples, including a case study from the University of Georgia’s Basic Needs initiative. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Apply the four phases of the Decision-Making Framework (DMF) with particular attention to quality data 

2. Implement data-based strategies to recognize and reduce the impact of emotional and personal biases in decision-making

Annie Carlson Welch, Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs

Amber Atkinson, Senior Business Intelligence Analyst

Sarah Strickland, Professional Affiliate

Higher education is at a critical crossroads, with change permeating every level of our institutions. Student affairs practitioners are often at the forefront, driving both large-scale shifts and smaller programmatic adjustments. Leaders who effectively leverage data are uniquely positioned to navigate these transitions. The presenters delve into the essential skills required to harness data throughout the change process. Participants will explore how data and assessment can be strategically employed to guide and sustain meaningful change. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Explain how data-informed decision-making supports various levels of change in higher education organizations 

2. Prepare actionable strategies for using data at different stages of a change process 

3. Assess how effectively they use data to guide decision-making and support change

Kimberly Yousey-Elsener, Research Associate Professor, Higher Education and Student Affairs

Laura Bayless, Vice President for Student Affairs

Ever had assessment results that made you question everything? You are not alone. This session features a panel of experts with extensive campus experience who will share real-world examples of surprising data that required thoughtful interpretation and strategic communication, although we all change a few specifics to protect the innocent. Attendees will learn practical skills so the next time you encounter unexpected results, you'll be prepared to act without the usual panic. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Describe the challenges presented by unanticipated data results 

2. Summarize six strategies for managing unexpected data results 

3. Evaluate ways to practically apply these strategies in various settings and contexts

Tiffany Conde, Senior Manager, Customer Experience

Matthew Venaas, Manager of Analytics & Research

The presenters will explore the career paths of professionals who have worked at HBCUs, PWIs, and other institutional types. Addressing common misconceptions, panelists will share their experiences and strategies for leveraging their HBCU background to advance their careers across various higher education environments. Attendees will gain insights into the unique campus cultures of HBCUs and the rigorous work conducted by their professionals, while also learning how to foster a culture of bold change and adaptability within the student affairs profession. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Analyze the career trajectories of those who have transitioned between HBCUs, PWIs, and other institutional types, identifying key strategies used to overcome challenges and leverage their HBCU experience for advancement 

2. Compare and contrast the campus cultures and work environments of HBCUs and PWIs, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities each setting offers for career development in student affairs 

3. Apply career capital concepts to their own experiences, creating strategies to leverage their roles for future career goals across different institutions

Jerisha Farrer,

Kevin Reese, Director of Multicultural Affairs

Prince Robertson, Ed.D., Dean of Students for Community Standards and Advocacy

Saranette Williams, Director of Career Services

Yasmine Farley, Director of the Career Center

Our field is experiencing significant challenges impacting our workforce and talent pipeline. This includes recruiting, upskilling, and sustaining staff with the knowledge and competencies necessary to be successful in today's rapidly changing higher education environments. In this session, a diverse group of panelists will speak to gaps in the workforce and strategies for addressing them. Emphasis will be given to how Student Affairs Educator Certification is being used to address these gaps and support SApros and the institutions they serve. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Summarize current challenges impacting the student affairs workforce and talent pipeline 

2. Recognize how certification is a resource to support staff recruitment, professional development, and morale

Joseph DeSanto Jones, Executive Director

Institutions of higher education across the globe faced challenging decisions around their preparation and response to demonstrations and campus disruption during the 2023-2024 academic year. Many schools saw graduation ceremonies interrupted or canceled. Join us for an interactive session in which presenters will discuss the changing environment of free expression on college campuses and what the University of Texas at Austin, a large, public university, did to ensure safe graduation ceremonies. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Explain the legal context for public universities regarding free speech and disruption 

2. List examples of foundational decision criteria for balancing speech and safety 

3. Describe the strategies that UT Austin implemented to manage 31 commencement ceremonies to ensure a safe and smooth graduation process

Aaron Voyles, Executive Director of Student Involvement

Kelly Soucy, Executive Director of Student Support

The presenter will share insights about utilizing the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies in the workplace. Discover the benefits and learn practical strategies of UDL that empower organizations to adapt to diverse learning styles. Participants will practice implementing UDL guidelines using real scenarios. Learn how UDL cultivates proactive inclusivity and accessibility to create thriving professional environments. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify Universal Design for Learning strategies and guidelines 

2. Discuss the appropriate use of UDL strategies in the workplace

Aleecea Denton, Residence Hall Director

Bias incidents towards people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and/or religious beliefs have been an issue of concern for colleges and universities throughout the years and are on the rise. College administrators have come to a crossroad when having to decide how to respond without violating the First Amendment. The presenter will provide attendees with tools to recognize and respond to bias incidents, promote a culture that values diversity and inclusion while respecting constitutional rights. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Indicate an understanding of the criteria utilized to identify and analyze instances of bias acts 

2. Describe the First Amendment and recognize the balance between protected speech and potential harm 

3. Discuss First Amendment and bias incidents, fostering a respectful and inclusive environment

Alesia Smith, Assistant Vice President/Title IX Coordinator

This presentation will explore how generative AI can be harnessed by supervisors to create dynamic career development plans, inspire strategic work projects, and enhance performance appraisals. We'll explore how AI can transform career progression within and beyond higher education, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Develop career development plans for employees based on job descriptions of progressive roles within and outside a specific higher education organization 

2. Generate strategic work project ideas that bolster employees' desired professional skills, drawing on relevant sources of inspiration 

3. Apply generative AI tools and techniques to enhance the performance appraisal process within the organization

Amarette Renieri, Associate Director of Career Services

Taylor Henderson, Director of Reliant Student Experience Office

The landscape of higher education is increasingly shaped by crises. Encampments, sexual misconduct, campus violence, and natural disasters have been among the most recent crises facing colleges and universities. It is often up to executive leaders in higher education to navigate crises and make crucial decisions that impact constituents across the institution and community. The presenters will share results from their dissertation which responds to this question: How do leaders in higher education make decisions during a crisis? 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify factors that executive leaders consider when making decisions in a campus crisis 

2. Compare ways to address crises currently facing their institutions 

3. Evaluate personal practice through the lens of decision-making during a crisis

Jorhie Beadle,

Matea Caluk, Chief of Staff

Are you a cisgender supervisor in higher education or human resources officer? Trans people in the U.S. are experiencing an unprecedented amount of anti-trans laws and rhetoric, which creates psychological and physical violence in the workplace. This session is based on Dr. Bri Sérráno's dissertation and will provide cisgender supervisors and leaders opportunities to better understand the experiences of transgender staff of color and critically engage with their positionality and power related to policy and practices in higher education. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Distinguish the impact of cisgender supervisory leadership on BIPOC trans supervises 

2. Examine how cisgender identities perpetuate trans violence and articulate personal responsibilities in addressing it 

3. Analyze the lived experiences of BIPOC trans staff within higher education

Bri Sérráno, Assistant Dean of Students and Director, Queer Resource Center

How does one create & maintain a welcoming environment on campus while also protecting freedom of expression & allowing diverse opinions & thoughts? A university must be a place where differing ideas and thoughts are welcomed while people are valued and nurtured. How and why do we accomplish this difficult goal? This presentation will provide a description of how the courts and institutions have addressed issues of freedom of speech, harassment, protest, and civil disobedience, all creating the framework within which such issues are addressed.

 Learning Outcomes 

1. Recognize that a potential conflict occurs when seeking to balance freedom of expression and diversity, equity, and inclusion 

2. Describe the Issues related to Freedom of Expression and Diversity Advocacy on American Campuses 

3. Articulate the case law on the First Amendment that impacts these issues

Dennis Gregory, Associate Professor of Higher Education

Kim Bullington, Assistant Professor of Higher Education

The presenter will share practical strategies and insights from developing a Spanish Orientation Program at Wichita State University. They will guide attendees through the essential steps of identifying needs, selecting appropriate resources, and implementing culturally relevant practices. Participants will learn how to craft inclusive and effective programs that support non-English speaking families as they navigate higher education.

 Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify and describe the essential steps in creating an orientation program for non-English-speaking families, including needs analysis, stakeholder engagement, securing funding, and marketing 

2. Analyze the linguistic and cultural needs of families through various methods such as surveys and focus groups 

3. Exemplify strategies to engage and collaborate with key stakeholders, including family representatives, community organizations, and institutional partners, to ensure the program meets diverse needs

Eiran Saucedo-Rodarte, Professional Affiliate

As free expression and other expressive activities continue to evolve on college campuses, student affairs professionals are frequently on the front lines of managing and encouraging constructive engagement. The presenters will share their response to recent campus protests and offer lessons learned, strategies for expanding campus support, and innovative training approaches to prepare staff to manage future expressive events. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Recall approaches to train and expand resources in dealing with expressive activities on campus 

2. Develop skills and knowledge in creating and implementing training programs for staff to prepare them for future engagements with expressive activities and protests 

3. Understand the importance of building and maintaining collaborative relationships with various campus stakeholders, including students, faculty, and staff

Edgar Dormitorio, Assistant Vice Chancellor & Chief of Staff

Ellen Whitehead, Associate Dean of Students

Floyd Lai, Associate Dean of Students

Rameen Talesh, Associate Vice Chancellor Student Life & Leadership/Dean of Students

Sherwynn Umali, Deputy Chief of Staff

Fat professionals face barriers within their work in higher education. Generational changes have opened some doors and closed others. The presenters will share personal experiences of being a Fat professional in student affairs, including barriers faced on a daily basis, as well as intersections of Fat Phobia with other historically marginalized identities, such as race/ethnicity and gender/sexuality. There will be opportunities for participants to share their own stories and discuss best practices for making space for EVERYBODY. This presentation is open to all, especially our Fat colleagues. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify struggles Fat professionals face within their work in HigherEd 

2. Recognize the unique intersections of fatphobia within the African American, Latin American, LGB and Transgender Communities and the barriers individuals have faced 

3. Compare personal experiences with those of peers at other institutions

Gabriela Ruelas,

J'Lissabeth Faughn,

Amanda Mynatt, Resident Director

Zachary Davis,

During this session, the presenters will explore how mid-level leaders are crucial and integral parts in navigating and sustaining success during organizational change. Being tasked with balancing strategic vision with operational expertise, these leaders are critically important in bridging the gap between executive directives and frontline execution, ensuring stability and continuity during times of change. The presenters will create space for dialogue and highlight the often-underestimated power of mid-level leadership in driving long-term organizational resilience. Learning Outcomes 1. Participants will understand how mid-level leaders act as pivotal agents in bridging organizational strategy and operational execution during transitions. 2. Participants will acquire practical tools and strategies for leading teams through organizational transitions. 3. Participants can apply foundational leadership and change management theories to real-world case studies, demonstrating how these concepts can address challenges faced during organizational transitions.

Anthony Webster, Ph.D., Director, TRIO Student Support Services

Julia Heck, Associate Vice President for Student Life and Support Programs & Dean of Students

LaMarcus D. Howard, Ph.D., Assistant Vice Chancellor, Student Health and Wellness

In light of increased expectations for severe weather events, housing professionals must be prepared for and ready to respond to campus emergencies resulting from natural disasters. The presenters will share the FEMA framework for emergency management and explore how the University of North Carolina Wilmington prepared for and responded to Hurricane Florence, contextualized within the emergency management framework. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Describe the Five Phases of Emergency Management as part of the Preparedness Cycle 

2. Understand how UNCW was impacted by and responded to Hurricane Florence 

3. Identify successes, struggles, and lessons UNCW learned from Hurricane Florence

Donovan Smith, Director of Residential Education and Housing

Kevin Wickliffe, Director

Expert panelists will share insights from temporary roles in a variety of student affairs positions in the U.S. and overseas, highlighting how interim positions offer flexibility, diverse experiences, and work-life balance. Learn how interim leaders address pressing needs; manage leadership transitions; and contribute to higher education's landscape. Discover the benefits for both professionals and institutions and explore how these positions enhance career satisfaction, institutional stability, and sustainable student affairs practice.

 Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify major trends driving the increased use of interim leadership roles in higher education, such as the length of hiring processes and the need for immediate expertise. 

2. Describe two specific ways interim leaders have addressed critical needs and contributed to organizational stability during transitional periods, using case studies or examples provided. 

3. Articulate ways interim roles offer flexibility, diverse professional experiences, and opportunities for skill development.

Kevin Stensberg, Senior Student Affairs Officer & Dean of Students

Jen Meyers Pickard, Ph.D., Senior Partner & Student Affairs Practice Leader

Leanna Fenneberg, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Student Life

Beth Moriarty,

Beth Hellwig,

Edmund Cabellon,

Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a transformative force in education, promising to enhance teaching, learning, and administrative processes across institutions. Community colleges, as crucial pillars of higher education accessibility and workforce development, stand to benefit significantly from integrating AI technologies. The panelists will outline the rationale, benefits, and strategies for integrating AI at community colleges, emphasizing improved educational outcomes and operational efficiencies. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Articulate how artificial intelligence can be integrated into community college systems to enhance administrative efficiency, support faculty, and improve student outcomes

2. Evaluate the ethical implications of using AI in educational settings, including data privacy, bias in AI algorithms, and ensuring equitable access to AI-driven resources

3. Develop strategic plans for implementing AI technologies, including assessing readiness, selecting appropriate AI tools, and measuring the impact on educational outcomes

Claire Brady, President

Edward Martinez, Ed.D., Associate Dean of Student Affairs

Mordecai I. Brownlee, Ed.D, President

Scott Peska, Assistant Provost of Student Services

For the first time in history, up to five generations have actively participated in the professional workforce. With Gen Z entering the workforce, it is crucial for supervisors and leaders to maximize individual perspectives, skills, and talents to achieve stronger outcomes to fully leverage their teams. The presenters will actively engage attendees through activities, case studies, and conversations highlighting generational characteristics in the workplace, and provide resources and strategies to thrive in managing a multi-gen team. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify the differences and characteristics of at minimum three generations in the current workforce

2. Articulate no less than 1-2 strategies to enhance their work experience with colleagues from different generations

3. Explore approaches to manage a multigenerational team through conversation and participation-based activities

Amy Snyder, Director of Staff Experience, University Life

Meeghan Milette, Associate Director, University Life Professional Development

The presenter will guide attendees in developing an Anti-Racist Supervisory Toolkit through an engaging blend of lecture, collaborative artwork, and think-pair-share activities. Participants will explore strategies for fostering equity and inclusion in their supervisory roles, reflect on personal biases, and create visual representations of their commitment to anti-racism. The presenter offers actionable insights and creative exercises to empower supervisors to transform their leadership practices and build supportive, inclusive workplaces. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Recognize and apply effective anti-racist strategies in their supervisory practices, integrating insights from current research and theories on equity and inclusion. 

2. Create personalized action plans for implementing anti-racist practices in their roles, using collaborative artwork and discussion to reflect on their commitments and specific goals. 

3. Exemplify cultural competency by engaging in discussions and exercises that challenge their biases, broaden their understanding of systemic racism, and improve their ability to support a diverse team.

Summie Bledsoe,

The presenters will explore the growing issue of burnout in higher education, examining its root causes and its impact on career advancement. Drawing on research and their own experiences, the presenters will offer practical strategies to make leadership roles more appealing to middle managers. The session will highlight how overwork and stress are deterring talented professionals from advancing and what leaders can do to create sustainable pathways for growth. Participants will actively engage in discussions to share challenges and solutions from their campuses and will leave the session with a toolkit of practical resources for implementing change. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Articulate the key factors contributing to burnout among middle managers in higher education, such as excessive workloads, lack of autonomy, and poor work-life balance

2. Compare leadership theories, such as transformational leadership and servant leadership, to develop a leadership approach that prioritizes staff well-being, autonomy, and professional growth

3. Participants will actively engage in discussions to share challenges and solutions from their campuses and will leave the session with a toolkit of practical resources for implementing change

Kevin Reese, Director of Multicultural Affairs

Yasmine Farley, Director of the Career Center

When we imagine a day in the life of a thriving student affairs professional, images of fiscal management may not be the first spring to mind. However, for today’s AVP, a keen understanding of “all things budget” is critical for a professional to be an effective divisional leader and colleague. This panel brings together a variety of institutional types and issues and aims to assist attendees in considering how they can improve their practice as experts in division financial planning and advocacy and be effective role models for their campus. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Craft a basic outline framework of responsibilities unique to the AVP role for division fiscal management 

2. Identify and explore challenges and obstacles for developing confidence and competency in financial planning, budget models and building partnerships with campus colleagues related to fiscal matters. 

3. Determine aspects of departmental culture that can be improved by practices that encourage fiscal competency development throughout the organization

Alicia Erwin, Assistant Vice President for Student Life, Strategic Operations

Alicia Martinez Newell, Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs

Carrie Lovelace Petr, PhD, PCC, BCC, CEO, Carrie Lovelace Petr Coaching & Consulting, LLC

Neil Jamerson, Assistant Dean for Community Standards & Student Support

The presenter will share details of rebuilding the student government association at Appalachian State University, including clarification of both the range of problems leading to change, and the steps taken to rebuild over the past two years. Through reframing student government, a new version of student representation has emerged, creating a more inclusive and collaborative environment which welcomes students, faculty and staff to engage together. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify various challenges and barriers that have become increasingly common within campus SGA organizations. 

2. Recognize that major change can be considered, even for student-led student organizations that are often perceived by some to be rich in history. 

3. Recall actionable steps that can be replicated on other campuses in collaboration with students.

Jeff Cathey, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Gretchen Cross,

Building a strong, communicative team is essential in today's ever-evolving student affairs landscape. In this session, Tihanna Louise will share proven strategies for mastering communication to create rockstar teams that tackle challenges head-on. Attendees will learn how to enhance team collaboration, overcome common barriers, and lead with confidence. Walk away with actionable tools to develop dynamic teams that not only meet but exceed the demands of the profession while fostering a culture of connection and excellence. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Analyze communication challenges on teams, identifying strategies to foster collaboration. By examining real-world scenarios, they will improve their ability to diagnose gaps and apply practical solutions for better team dynamics

2. Apply communication techniques like active listening and conflict resolution to enhance team dynamics. Hands-on activities will provide tools to immediately apply to improve collaboration and problem-solving within their teams

3. Evaluate leadership practices that foster a communication-first culture, enhancing innovation and resilience. Using case studies, attendees will gain insight into how leadership behaviors shape team performance and adaptability

Tihanna Louise, CEO/Executive Coach & Communication Consultant

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of distributed and remote work in higher education. This presentation explores challenges and opportunities of supervising teams across varied time zones and work modalities. Attendees will learn effective leadership strategies, communication techniques, and tools for building cohesive distributed and remote teams. Practical case studies will equip supervisors with knowledge and skills to navigate this nuanced and evolving work environment. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Understand the complexities of supervising distributed and remote teams and team members in higher education

2. Apply effective strategies for building trust, fostering collaboration, and managing performance in virtual/remote environments

3. Leverage technology to enhance communication, productivity, sense of belonging, and team culture

Jeremy Moore, Dean of Students

Fraternity and Sorority Life and the Office of Student Conduct should work as allies. However, a lack of cooperation and distance often replace the respect and shared responsibility that should be the cornerstone of their collaboration. In this session, the presenters will explore the barriers to effective collaboration and discuss how aligning a vision for accountability can transform how these offices work together to educate and support students. They will share practical processes, experiences, and solutions, offering a road map for implementing change on campus.

 Learning Outcomes 

1. Examine where there are potential conflicts in relationships between Fraternity & Sorority Life and Conduct Offices and identify potential opportunities for successes and future collaborations 

2. Identify a road map and shared language to begin conversations with their Fraternity & Sorority Life and/or Conduct office to enhance collaboration and encourage alignment in response and outcomes 

3. Construct a shared Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to govern conduct incidents from examples provided in the session

Kaela Lindquist,

Michelle Guobadia, Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life

Certain states are creating policies to diminish "DEI" engagement, recruitment, and retention resources; leadership trainers need tools to motivate and inspire people across different social identities. Trainers who value "DEI" must find innovative ways to include it in trainings. This session develops professionals, who train diverse people, using identity-based storytelling and experiential learning activities. Participants in this session will create strategies that build trust and increase social identity awareness. Participants will be exposed to intergroup dialogue activities to discuss best practices and collaborate. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Summarize strategies that build trusting relationships by developing impact statements

2. Develop inspirational stories to increase vulnerability and trust during training

Dar Mayweather, Full-Time Lecturer

As uncertainty surrounds the use of AI in higher education, institutions grapple with how or if AI should be integrated into educational practices. This session will delve into the journey of one online state institution that boldly launched an AI platform to enhance efficiency and enable Success Coaches to focus more on learners. The presenters will share both the successes and challenges encountered, offering insights and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of AI implementation in a higher education setting.

 Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify challenges and successes in AI implementation for student support, apply practical strategies for integration, and critically assess AI's impact on enhancing learner engagement in their own institutions

2. Explore how AI can streamline administrative tasks, allowing staff to focus on personalized student engagement.

Robert Grady,

Susan Hawkins-Wilding, Vice President for Student Success

Tamara Dorsey, Director, Office of Student Success

Bridget Yuhas, Director | Student Affairs Assessment & Strategy Executive Director | Institute for Well-being

Laurel Donley, Vice Provost of Student Affairs

Colleges face increasing demand for mental health support amid financial constraints. During this session, we will share a strategic approach to collaboration between student affairs and advancement teams to secure funding for mental health initiatives. We will explore effective fundraising methods, including partnerships with parents, alumni, and external stakeholders. We will cover best practices for cultivating relationships, articulating the value of mental health programs, and ensuring sustainable funding without adding financial burdens. 

Learning Outcomes 

1. Develop strategies to effectively promote mental health initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of diverse student groups

2. Identify areas for expansion and enhancement within their counseling services to better support the needs of students

3. Apply effective storytelling techniques to convey the impact of mental health and wellness initiatives, fostering emotional connections with donors and inspiring them to invest in the cause

Laurel Donley, Vice Provost of Student Affairs