Moving from Organizational Silos to Cross-Functional Collaborations: Building Relationships Across Campus to Foster Student Success and Engagement
Includes a Live Web Event on 05/20/2025 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
-
You must log in to register
- Non-member - $179
- Member - $79
Rayshawn Eastman
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Wilmington College
Rayshawn L. Eastman, Ph.D. currently serves as Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at Wilmington College. He is an unyielding educator committed to the holistic development of students. In addition, he serves students as a scholar-practitioner dedicated to applying student development and learning theories to practice. Dr. Eastman consistently creates safe and inclusive environments where students are challenged to take ownership of their educational experience while ensuring they have the proper support systems to learn and develop. During his career, Dr. Eastman has created and implemented an array of collaborative student success programs and initiatives. Of note, Lions 1st Scholars Community (first-generation student program), Quaker Up! Experience (student life co-curricular engagement framework), and the Mosaic Inclusion Center (Mount St. Jospeh’s first ever multicultural center). Dr. Eastman’s research focuses on co-curricular learning, retention, holistic student experiences, sense of belonging, organizational development, organizational resource allocation practices, and higher education finance and budgeting.
Jarrod Benjamin, Ph.D.
CEO
L.E.A.D. Firm
Dr. Benjamin is the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Strategist of the L.E.A.D. Firm. He is responsible for curriculum development, focused-group facilitation, leadership training, and keynote events and serves as an organization consultant for over 120 colleges and universities nationwide. Oversight training includes Higher Education Enrollment Management Consultation, First-Generation College Student Retention Strategy, Student Leadership, Greek Life, and Student Affairs Professional Team Building.
Cesquinn M. Curtis, MPA
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Kent State University
Cesquinn M. Curtis, MPA serves as Associate Vice President for Student Life at Kent State University. Cesquinn is a highly motivated professional skilled in the following areas: retention and persistence initiatives, student co-curricular engagement, student learning and development, staff development, finance and budgeting, capital planning, auxiliary services, program development and implementation, strategic planning, assessment & accreditation, university advancement, and project management with more than 15 years of experience.
The current higher education landscape demands an integrated and collaborative approach to support student success and engagement. Unfortunately, student affairs professionals often face challenges due to working in isolated departments. By breaking down these barriers, professionals can create a unified and student-centric campus environment. The presenters will address organizational silos and offer strategies for student affairs professionals to foster cross-functional collaborations.
The presenters will explore practical strategies to build relationships across campus and foster collaboration among different departments. Using these strategies, student affairs professionals can enhance student support services and programs, improving student success and engagement. Throughout the session, we will highlight the importance of effective communication in fostering cross-functional collaborations. Active listening and empathetic dialogue are essential for building relationships and promoting cooperation among diverse campus stakeholders. "Lack of effective communication can perpetuate organizational silos, hindering collaboration and impeding student success" (Johnson & Smith, 2018, p. 42).
We will also emphasize the significance of leveraging existing networks and platforms within the campus community. Engaging in committees, task forces, and online communities can facilitate connections and create opportunities for collaboration across departments. "Utilizing existing networks and platforms fosters connections and cooperation among diverse campus departments, breaking down silos" (Brown & Wilson, 2019, p. 75). The presenters will discuss the importance of effective leadership as a crucial role in driving collaboration and breaking down silos. We will discuss leadership strategies for promoting a shared vision, advocating for cross-functional teamwork, and cultivating a culture of collaboration. "Leadership that promotes a shared vision, and a culture of collaboration can break down silos and foster cross-functional teamwork" (Miller & Davis, 2020, p. 102).
Real-life examples of successful cross-functional collaborations in student affairs will be shared, showcasing innovative programs and partnerships that have positively impacted student success and engagement. These examples will inspire and give attendees practical insights to implement in their institutions. The presenters will provide opportunities for participant involvement, including discussion and effective practice sharing. Participants will have the chance to share their own experiences and ideas, facilitating a collaborative learning environment. This presentation will equip student affairs professionals with practical strategies to break down organizational silos and build cross-functional collaborations. By fostering relationships across campus, professionals can create an integrated, student-centered environment that enhances student success and engagement.
Learning Outcomes
1. Participants will understand the concept of organizational silos and their impact on student affairs professionals and student success.
2. Participants will recognize the benefits of cross-functional collaborations in student affairs for fostering student success and engagement.
3. Participants will recognize the importance of leadership in promoting a shared vision and cultivating a culture of collaboration.
4. Participants will identify and leverage existing networks and platforms within the campus community to foster collaboration and break down silos.