Wiliama R. Sanchez (he/him) is the Director of Student Conduct & Concern at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where he leads efforts to support students navigating complex challenges, including natural disasters. A proud Kanaka Maoli, Wiliama’s work is deeply rooted in his commitment to equity, inclusion, and the well-being of the Lāhui. With extensive experience in crisis management, he has successfully implemented trauma-informed practices and support systems to address the immediate and long-term impacts of natural disasters on students. Wiliama works closely with diverse stakeholders—students, faculty, and emergency response teams—to create holistic solutions that align with Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (JEDIB) principles. His hands-on approach to crisis response has been informed by years of experience supporting students during times of upheaval, ensuring that care and community remain central to institutional responses. Wiliama’s dedication to fostering resilience in chaotic times has positioned him as a leader in the field and a trusted advocate for students in the Pacific region and beyond. Through his work, Wiliama seeks to empower fellow student affairs professionals with strategies to address the unique challenges natural disasters pose to the student experience.

Dr. Theresa Crichfield is a dedicated higher education professional with a profound commitment to student development, retention, and success. She currently serves as the Dean of Students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering student well-being and enhancing the overall educational experience through strategic leadership and a student-centered approach.

Prior to joining Embry-Riddle, Dr. Crichfield served as the Associate Vice Provost for Student Success and Dean of Students at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. In this role, she provided leadership in student co-curricular success, coordinated key initiatives, and acted as the division’s crisis manager, demonstrating her expertise in navigating complex student affairs challenges. During her tenure, she played a critical role in supporting students impacted by the Maui wildfires, leading response efforts to ensure affected students had access to emergency resources, housing, and academic support. She was also instrumental in the development, launch, and ongoing implementation of a partnership with EdSights, leveraging AI-driven engagement to connect students with essential support services.

Dr. Crichfield also spent a decade at Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida, where she held several key roles, including Dean of Students. Throughout her career, she has consistently prioritized student-centric approaches, excelling in crisis management and significantly advancing student success and retention.

Passionate about cultivating meaningful relationships within the university community, Dr. Crichfield remains dedicated to creating supportive environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. Her unwavering commitment to student well-being continues to guide her impactful work in higher education.