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.

Gavin earned their Ph.D. in Foundations of Education and Inquiry from the University of South Carolina’s College of Education and completed a graduate certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies. Prior to joining the faculty at Illinois State University, Gavin worked for several years as a university administrator in the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at the University of South Carolina, where they led and supported social justice- and equity-focused initiatives. Earlier in their career, Gavin was an outdoor educator at Princeton University, leading youth in backpacking and other experiential education programs, work that continues to inform their approach to leadership, pedagogy, and community building.

SMF is the NASPA Region 2 Faculty Representative and co-lead for the NASPA Faculty Institute. With over 25 years of professional experience in res life, student life, and academic affairs, his scholarship focuses on mattering, belonging, graduate teaching, and graduate student services. Prior to Villanova, he was a visiting professor and faculty-in-residence at the University of North Texas.  A graduate of the University of Florida and The Ohio State University's HESA programs, he unofficially majored in college at Florida Atlantic University. He is a proud cat dad.

Kerry earned an Ed.D. in Counselor Education, Graduate Certificate in Gender & Women’s Studies, and M.S. in College Student Affairs from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Before joining the faculty, their career included practitioner experience in identity-based centers at private and public institutions, community college counseling, and public university academic advising. Drawing on this broad background, Kerry enjoys supporting students navigate graduate pathways and career progression in student affairs. Their work is rooted in mentorship and a commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging in higher education.

Anwar Cruter serves as the Director for Residential Education for Sophomore and Upper Division residential communities at San Diego State University. Anwar has over 15 years of experience working in higher education at both public and private institutions across the country focusing on student success initiatives , equity-minded practices and student life and engagement. 

Dr. Brooke Paradise, Ed.D. (they/them), is a dynamic higher education leader, educator, researcher, and advocate for inclusive excellence. As the Associate Dean of Student Affairs for Inclusion and Engagement at Skidmore College, they lead initiatives focused on student belonging, leadership development, and transformative learning, including the development of Skidmore’s first residential experience curriculum. A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Paradise holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and brings a passion for advancing equity, fostering authentic leadership, and creating environments where individuals can thrive. Their research and professional work center on neurodivergence, inclusive leadership, social justice, and the retention and well-being of higher education professionals. Nationally, they serve in multiple leadership roles with NASPA, including National Chair of the Undergraduate Student Conference, Region II Communications Coordinator, and member of the NASPA Governance Task Force. Through their scholarship, leadership, and advocacy, Dr. Paradise is committed to reimagining higher education through creativity, care, and meaningful institutional change.

Leticia Lynch (she/her) serves as the Assistant Director for Orientation and New Student Programs at Hofstra University on Long Island, New York. Her passion for student affairs began during her undergraduate studies at Ithaca College as she pursued a degree in applied psychology with a minor in counseling. Her experiences as an Orientation Leader, Resident Assistant, and other student leadership roles inspired her pursue the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program (NUFP). Leticia continued to follow her passion for student affairs and earned her master’s degree in higher education and student affairs from New York University. Her professional experiences include student leadership, student club advising, campus-wide programming, orientation, and first year experience initiatives.

Jaquoi Dorsett (He/Him) was born and raised in Florida and graduated from the University of Florida with a B.A. in Sociology. He is currently based in Buffalo, NY, where he serves as a Career Development Graduate Assistant at Canisius University while completing his Master's in Higher Education Leadership and Administration. Jaquoi is passionate about supporting student success and enjoys board games, R&B music, and hiking in his free time.

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.

Dana Downey serves as the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs at NYU Abu Dhabi, overseeing the Career Development Center and Civic Engagement & Service departments, as well as the assessment and communications portfolios of the Student Affairs division. She has worked in higher education on three continents, seeking to foster cultures of curiosity, impact, and lifelong learning. She aims to connect people with each other and with opportunities, build capacity on teams, and lower barriers to access when it comes to options.

Hammad Khalid is a seasoned education professional with extensive experience in academic leadership, student development, and alumni engagement. He currently serves as Senior Manager at Aga Khan University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences, following over five years at The Citizens Foundation, where he held several leadership roles, including Head of College and Senior Manager of Alumni Programs. His professional background spans strategic communication, project management, career counseling, and employee engagement. He holds an MBA in HR and Marketing from the Institute of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in electrical and Electronics Engineering from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST).

With two decades of experience as a career educator, Maha oversees the development and implementation of the full-range of career services and programs at The American University in Cairo (AUC)’s Career Center including employer engagement, career advising and experiential learning. Over the span of time, Maha 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, 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 Gen Z'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 tool-kits. Maha got  certified as a Career Development Facilitator Master Trainer (CDF-MT) in 2024 and is a certified CDF Instructor (CDF-I) since 2010 by the National Career Development Association (NCDA). Maha 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 memberships of the National Career Development Association (NCDA) and the National Association for Colleges and Employers (NACE). 

Maha graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a double minor in Psychology and Business Administration from AUC. 

Areas of Expertise: 

Career Guidance and Coaching | Career Readiness and Employability | Strategic Employer Branding |  Employer Relations/Engagement | Personal Branding | Experiential Learning | Capacity Building | Job Search | Psychometric Assessments

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.

Meeghan Milette serves as the Associate Director of Professional Development in University Life at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She provides leadership to divisional professional development initiatives and signature professional development programs coordinated by the Professional Development team. Ms. Milette has a background in professional development, staff training, building and facilitation of professional learning experiences, collaborative programming, along with supervision and staff management. Milette is committed to enhancing professional staff experiences through her work. Professionally, Milette worked in Housing & Residence Life for over 15 years in various professional roles gaining skills and professional competency in staff management, crisis response, leadership, and training development. Milette currently serves as the Co-Chair of the NASPA Mid-Level Administrator Steering Committee and served on the 2025 Mid-Level Administrator Conference (MLAC) planning team.

Tania Velazquez is a student affairs administrator with more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience across both four-year universities and community colleges. She currently serves as Assistant Dean of Student Services at Suffolk County Community College, where she provides executive oversight of Counseling, Advisement, Career Services, Transfer Services, and mentoring initiatives serving over 11,000 students. She also holds a concurrent role as College-Wide Director of Career Services, leading strategy and operations across three campuses to advance career readiness, employer engagement, and workforce development. She is an active contributor to the field through national presentations, publications, and professional service. Tania has presented extensively at NASPA conferences and currently serves as Co-Chair of the NASPA Mid-Level Administrators Steering Committee. Her previous leadership roles include Chief of Staff for the NASPA Community College Division and Chair of the NASPA Latinx/a/o Knowledge Community. She is also an elected member of the SUNY Community College Leadership Academy.

Loreal N. Marshall is the Associate Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), bringing over 18 years of experience in education, student affairs, and leadership development. Her expertise spans student engagement, cultural identity, risk management, and parliamentary procedure. Loreal previously worked in Fraternity & Sorority Life at The University of Iowa and in Student Leadership at Columbia College Chicago, supporting holistic student success and organizational

excellence.

She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Higher Education and Student Affairs at Northern Illinois University, deepening her commitment to inclusive leadership and institutional change.

A Life Member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Loreal served as the 23rd Centennial Central Region Syntaktes (Regional Director), leading strategic initiatives around chapter growth, retention, and member development. She also holds membership in Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Loreal is the founder of Profound Healing, LLC, a wellness initiative focused on empowering women through mental health, faith, and holistic support. Above all, she is the proud mother of her amazing five-year-old daughter, Autumn Bright. Her life and work are guided by faith, purpose, and an unwavering passion for equity and empowerment.

Annie Henning-Yount (she/her) is a mid-level professional and Online Programs Specialist at Southeast Missouri State University. As a life-ling learner, her career has spanned a broad range of institutions and functional areas. She has supported efforts within higher education-student affairs professional associations for the last five years in both committee and leadership roles in NASPA and TPE. Annie's volunteerism in these associations intertwines her interests in found community and programming with academic interests in organizational theory and career development. 

Tania Velazquez is a student affairs administrator with more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience across four-year universities and community colleges. She currently serves as Assistant Dean of Student Services at Suffolk County Community College, where she provides leadership for Counseling, Advisement, Career Services, Transfer Services, and mentoring initiatives serving more than 11,000 students. She also serves as College-Wide Director of Career Services, leading strategy across three campuses to advance career readiness, employer engagement, and workforce development. A mission-driven and inclusive leader, Tania has extensive experience in strategic planning, organizational leadership, program development, and equity-centered practice, with a particular commitment to improving outcomes for first-generation, Latinx, and historically underrepresented students.

Tania is an active contributor to the student affairs profession through national presentations, publications, mentorship, and professional service. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the NASPA Mid-Level Administrators Steering Committee and previously served as Chief of Staff for the NASPA Community College Division and Chair of the NASPA Latinx/a/o Knowledge Community. Her contributions to the profession have been recognized with the NASPA Mena Valdez Community College Award, among other honors. A bilingual professional in English and Spanish, Tania brings a culturally responsive approach to leadership and student development and is deeply committed to advancing equity, representation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership in higher education. She holds a Master of Social Work from Stony Brook University, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from SUNY Geneseo, and an Associate in Arts from Suffolk County Community College.

Dr. Alonzo O’Shae Ross is a proud mid-level student affairs leader currently serving as the Assistant Dean of Students and Director for First-Year and Family Experience Programs at Indiana University Bloomington. A dedicated first-generation college graduate, Dr. Ross brings extensive expertise in student development, retention strategy, and community engagement to his work, designing transformative campus programming that fosters community and long-term academic success. Beyond his administrative leadership at IU Bloomington, he active supports K-12 and postsecondary pathways as a board member and committee chair for the Indiana Math and Science Academy, and frequently presents at national conferences on leadership, personal branding, and the evolving student experience.

Brittany Heims is Assistant Dean of Academic Operations at Loyola University New Orleans' College of Business, where she oversees accreditation efforts, academic operations, and student success initiatives, ensuring systems and processes across the college run smoothly and efficiently. She also continues to serve as Associate Director of the college’s Portfolio Career Development Program, a role she has held since April 2024, supporting academic advising and career coaching for undergraduate business students. Brittany joined Loyola's College of Business in 2023 and has focused her work on building career-readiness skills, promoting academic best practices, and connecting students to opportunities that prepare them for the workforce or graduate study. Prior to Loyola, she held academic advising and student success roles at Xavier University of Louisiana and the University of New Orleans (now LSU New Orleans), and has also worked as English faculty, a Residence Life Coordinator, and a First-Year Seminar instructor across universities in Louisiana. Brittany holds two Master's Degrees from Northwestern State University in English Literature and Student Affairs in Higher Education, and is currently pursuing an EdD in Educational Leadership. She is driven by a passion for student engagement and retention, particularly among first-year and underserved populations, and remains committed to building bridges between students and the resources that help them thrive.

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.

Gian Luca is a lawyer registered with the Italian bar association. He has been on the board of directors of Collegio Universitario Internazionale di Roma (CUIR) since 1992, advocating for the integration of life skills in the academic curricula and working for national recognition of University Colleges of Merit (Collegi di Merito) to foster academic excellence in Italy. Recognising the added value of internationalization in higher education, Gian Luca promoted the creation of the European University College Association (EucA) in 2006, and he has been its president ever since. During his tenure with EucA, Gian Luca has pursued the association’s growth, and official recognition by European Union institutions of University Colleges’ role in providing a holistic education for students that strengthens their development and employability. While at EucA, he has overseen the creation and management of European research projects, namely Modernising Higher Education through Soft Skills Accreditation (MODES). He is a keen supporter of NASPA -Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, with which he has collaborated since 2012 in the organization of International Events, and he is a co-author of the volume "Supporting Students globally in Higher Education", published in 2016 by NASPA.

When not engaging with EucA projects and students in Brussels, Rome or other European cities, Gian Luca is an enthusiastic promoter of “made in Italy” products: be it Italian fashion, cuisine or wines, he persuasively argues-as any lawyer does-the advantages of buying Italian goods.

Ahmed Osman is an accomplished higher education executive and student affairs leader with more than 22 years of progressive experience advancing student success, leadership development, and institutional engagement within The City University of New York (CUNY).

As University Student & Residence Life Director within CUNY’s Central Office of Student Affairs, Ahmed provides strategic leadership across student life, orientation, residence life, and student leadership development. His work focuses on creating integrated student experiences that foster belonging, engagement, leadership capacity, and student success.
Ahmed provides strategic oversight of the Ernesto Malave Leadership Academy, where he has developed and implemented leadership development initiatives that prepare students to serve as effective leaders, advocates, and change agents within CUNY and their communities. His approach to leadership emphasizes civic engagement, advocacy, global citizenship, inclusion, and the development of the whole student.

A respected voice in higher education and student affairs, Ahmed presented at national and international conferences, including NASPA and the European Conference for Student Affairs and Services. He also serves on the NASPA International Symposium Planning Committee, contributing to conversations and initiatives that advance student affairs practice in an increasingly global higher education environment.

Ahmed holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Baruch College, The City University of New York. As an S+EI Certified Coach, he brings an additional dimension of coaching and leadership development to his work, supporting individuals and emerging leaders in reaching their professional and personal potential.
His leadership philosophy is grounded in student-centered practice, strategic collaboration, diversity, equity, inclusion, community engagement, and a commitment to empowering individuals and communities to create meaningful and sustainable change.

Cory Owen is the Associate Dean of Student Life and Chief Student Affairs Officer in residence at Schwarzman College.  Cory has served in numerous student affairs roles across a variety of educational institutions over the past 20 years, including as the Dean of Students of Yale-NUS College in Singapore, and in student-facing roles at The Juilliard School, Rice University, and Semester at Sea.  Cory is from the U.S. and has been based in Singapore for the past six years. She holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration & Supervision from the University of Houston.

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.

Nick serves as Director of the Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground at Boston University, where he leads initiatives focused on student belonging, identity development, and access to academic and career success. Guided by Howard Thurman's call for self-discovery and purpose, his work centers on empowering students and fostering inclusive campus communities.

A leader in equity, organizational culture, and staff development, Nick has contributed to university-wide efforts to strengthen workplace culture, advance equity initiatives, and build innovative partnerships across campus. He is also a founding member of the Patriot League Anti-Racism Commission and has played a key role in professional development efforts through The Placement Exchange (TPE), supporting workforce sustainability and leadership development in student affairs.

Nick is passionate about mentorship, leadership, and creating pathways for others to thrive in higher education and the student affairs profession.

Benjamin Williams (He/Him) serves as the Associate Dean of Students & Deputy Title IX Coordinator at Trinity University where we has broad oversight of student engagement and supports crisis and care work. His career has been strategic, intentional, and somewhat unorthodox. He’s worked across multiple areas ranging from orientation & family programs, conduct, care, activities, fundraising and student unions in progressive roles that provides a broad understanding of the student lifecycle and transferable skills. He completed his bachelor and doctorate from Georgia State University and masters from Miami of Ohio. 

Dr. Fran’Cee Brown-McClure serves as Vice President for Student Affairs at Prairie View A&M University, where she provides executive leadership for the programs, services, and experiences that support students beyond the classroom. She brings more than 20 years of higher education leadership experience across public and private institutions, research universities, liberal arts colleges, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Prior to joining Prairie View A&M, Dr. Brown-McClure served as Associate Vice Chancellor & Dean of Students at Louisiana State University. Her career also includes service as Vice President for Student Affairs at Jackson State University, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Union College, Dean of Students at Spelman College, and Associate Dean of Residential Education at Stanford University. Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening the student experience, developing campus communities, supporting student well-being and success, and building strong connections between academic and student affairs.

Dr. Brown-McClure is also an experienced speaker and facilitator whose work has addressed leadership, student success, Greek life, emotional intelligence, cross-generational workplace relationships, and the experiences of women in leadership.

Dr. Brown-McClure earned her Ph.D. in Educational Administration from The University of Texas at Austin, Master of Social Work from Boston University, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Jackson State University. At the heart of Dr. Brown-McClure’s work is a belief in the transformative power of higher education and in creating environments where students can feel a sense of belonging, discover their potential, develop as leaders, and thrive both during college and beyond.

Dr. Jayla Moody Marshall (she/her/hers) is an Assistant Professor of Higher Education and the Interim Program Coordinator of the Higher Education Administration Program at North Carolina Central University. Her scholarship centers purpose development among marginalized college students, investigating how institutional structures shape their journeys through higher education and influence their opportunities to thrive during and after college. Through critical, qualitative inquiry, she investigates how care, joy, and community function as tools for transformation. Her research also explores institutional practices in graduate education, including mentorship and holistic student development.

Jayla completed her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at North Carolina State University in Spring 2025, where she was selected as the College of Education Graduate Student Speaker for the Spring 2025 Commencement. During her doctoral journey, she was also recognized with the 2021 Provost Fellowship and the 2024 Chancellor's Creating Community Outstanding Student Award. Dr. Moody Marshall's expertise is complemented by her background as a storyteller. She believes in the power of storytelling to drive change and writes at the intersection of justice and transformative practice. Drawing on her experience in program coordination, admissions, and student advising across undergraduate and graduate education, she leverages narratives to build higher education environments where students are seen, valued and empowered.

Sonja Ardoin, PhD, is a learner, educator, speaker, and author. Proud of her rural hometown of Vidrine, Louisiana, her working-class, Cajun roots, and her first-generation college student to PhD journey, Sonja earned degrees from LSU, Florida State, and NC State. A dedicated scholar-practitioner, Sonja spent a decade as a student affairs administrator before transitioning to the faculty in 2015. She currently serves as a professor of higher education and student affairs at Clemson University. Sonja studies social class identity, rurality, first-generation college students, and career preparation and pathways in higher education and student affairs. She has published over 70 scholarly works (including 7 books!) and provided over 200 keynote and scholarly talks for over 100 different organizations. She stays engaged in the broader field through ACPA, AFLV, ASHE, FirstGen Forward, LeaderShape, NASPA, SACSA, and several journal editorial boards.

As the Director of Innovation and Impact on the Quality Coaching team, Victoria Dunn manages work addressing scalable solutions for quality education-to-career coaching, especially technology-enabled or publicly available solutions. She also supports overall grant making and management across the team's portfolio including post-secondary education, transition coaching, and state-level supports. Victoria joined Strada in 2024. Previously, she led work in several national college access and success organizations, such as the Posse Foundation, Bottom Line, and KIPP Foundation. 

Dr. Melissa Irvin serves as Senior Associate Vice Provost for Student Success at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. In this role, she provides strategic leadership for the Academic Success Center, First-Year Experience & University Pathways unit and Advising & Technology Initiatives, guiding initiatives that promote academic excellence, coordinated care, and proactive interventions. She previously served as Assistant Dean for Academic Support and Outreach at the University of South Florida, where she oversaw Academic Advocacy, High-Impact Practices & Undergraduate Research, and advising technology & analytics. Earlier in her career, she held leadership positions at Tennessee Technological University, advancing enrollment management and student success initiatives that achieved record retention gains. Most recently in the Division of Student Success at UT Knoxville, she led the Division’s adoption of Salesforce Student Success Hub and the development of the University Exploratory Pathways initiative for first-time-in-college students admitted with test scores below historical benchmarks.

Dr. Kayla Devora-Jones is the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at Coastal Bend College, a rural Hispanic-Serving Institution in South Texas. A first-generation college student herself, she has spent more than 20 years working in education to create coherent pathways for first-generation, rural, and Latinx students. She holds an doctorate degree in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University, fellow of the Latinos for Education Advanced Leadership Fellowship (ALLF), a NASPA Advising Success Network mentor, and the creator of Mi Camino — a bilingual, AI-powered navigator designed to support first-generation Latinx students through the high school-to-college transition. Her work sits at the intersection of user-centered design, access, and innovation in student success.

Amie Tryon has served as Vice President of Academic Affairs at Salish Kootenai College since June 2025, following an interim appointment to the position.  During her 31 years with the College, she has served as an Upward Bound Instructor, Department Chair / Faculty of Liberal Arts, Director of Academic Success, and Director of Institutional Effectiveness.  Her experience as staff, faculty, institutional researcher, and now administrator, provide for a multi-perspective approach in leading student success work.  Through these various roles, Amie has led, and continues to lead, campus student support and success initiatives in conjunction with American Indian College Fund, Achieving the Dream, the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, and the Urban Institute in an effort to strengthen sustainable student supports; grow integrated campus collaborations; develop student centric procedures and policies; and build data capacity within campus programs and departments.

David Ford, Ed.D., is Vice President of Quality Coaching at Strada Education Foundation, where he leads efforts to translate the Principles for Quality Education-to-Career Guidance into scalable, statewide practice. He also supports the Quality Coaching team’s efforts to advance human-centered, AI-enabled, technology approaches and solutions for scaling through the use of career navigation platforms. A first-generation college student who began his career as a school counselor, Dr. Ford has spent nearly three decades supporting systems and learners navigating critical transitions from education to meaningful work. Most recently, he served as Bureau Chief at the Iowa Department of Education and Executive Director of the Iowa College Student Aid Commission, overseeing the state’s college access, affordability, and attainment initiatives. A recognized leader in the field, Dr. Ford specializes in aligning K–12, higher education, and workforce systems to ensure that personalized guidance and career navigation become universal drivers of economic mobility.

As Strada’s senior vice president, quality coaching, Craig Robinson leads efforts to ensure all students have access to education-to-employment guidance that helps them reflect on their talents and interests, choose a career goal, map pathways through education, and successfully navigate challenges. Robinson’s work focuses on developing systems that support coaching that is timely and responsive to students’ talents and interests as well as labor market needs.
Before joining Strada in 2024, Robinson served as president and chief executive officer of Matriculate, a national tech-enabled virtual advising program that connects high-achieving, low-income college juniors and seniors to highly trained undergraduate advisors. Robinson previously served as CEO at College Possible, a college access and completion program that matches eligible students with near-peer coaches and a curriculum designed to help them navigate and overcome common barriers to success in education after high school.

Elise Newkirk-Kotfila serves as the assistant vice president for strategy and partnerships at NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. Her work focuses on student success research and partnerships, and she leads the Advising Success Network, a dynamic network of national organizations partnering to engage institutions in holistic advising redesign to advance success for all students, including Black, Latinx/a/o, Indigenous, Asian, and Pacific Islander students and poverty-affected students. The network provides technical assistance and resources to guide colleges and universities through advising redesign initiatives and has supported over 267 institutions in 30 states. Prior to her work at NASPA, Elise served as the director of applied learning for the State University of New York (SUNY), where she led SUNY’s 64 campuses through an applied learning initiative which culminated in providing at least one high-quality experiential learning opportunity to 460,000 students. Elise has served on national advisory councils and boards, including on the executive board for the Society for Experiential Education. Elise holds a master’s degree from the University at Albany where she studied Women’s Studies and Public Policy with a research concentration on community-university partnerships and a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies from The College of Saint Rose.

Creston Lynch, Ph.D. serves as Assistant Vice President for University Life at George Mason University, Virginia's largest and most diverse public university, where he leads division-wide initiatives, oversees student retention and success programs, and supports implementation of the university's strategic plan. He has held senior leadership roles at Southern Methodist University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Western Kentucky University, and Clemson University, building coalitions, strengthening campus climate, and advancing the student experience across institutional contexts. He has been active in NASPA for more than a decade, presenting at the Annual Conference and AVP Symposium and engaging with regional and national planning efforts. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of North Texas.

Garrett Naiman leads campuswide strategy and operations that advance student success, engagement, and well-being at the University of California, Santa Cruz. He brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education, grounded in the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive. He has been an active NASPA contributor and most recently served on the 2025 Extended Learning Sessions conference subcommittee. He holds degrees from UC Santa Barbara, the University of Vermont, and the University of San Francisco.

Quincy D. Spencer provides strategic leadership for student engagement, belonging, and success at the University of Arkansas, overseeing a portfolio that includes transition programs, college access, student media, leadership and involvement, family programs, community engagement, and multicultural initiatives. His scholarship focuses on family engagement, first-generation student success, and second-year retention, and he draws on experience across large public universities, mid-sized institutions, and medical colleges. A past president of NODA, he is active in NASPA and AHEPPP and works as an independent higher education consultant. He holds a doctorate in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas.

Rollie Carencia is originally from Los Angeles. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Media & Cultural Studies from University of California, Riverside, and his Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs from New York University.

Rollie currently serves as the Executive Director of Student Life at the School of Professional Studies at Columbia University, where he leads initiatives that enhance the student experience and foster vibrant, inclusive campus communities. With a strong foundation in student affairs, Rollie has contributed to several institutions, including the University of California, Riverside, Pratt Institute, New York University, and Columbia University, supporting student engagement.

Outside of his professional work, Rollie enjoys staying active through marathon running and cycling, and he is always on the lookout for his next culinary adventure.

Nora Kearney is originally from Buffalo, NY. She earned her Master of Arts in Student Affairs and Catholic University Leadership from Boston College, and holds a BA in Art History and Writing from Loyola University Maryland.

Nora currently serves as the Manager for Client Success at Ready Education. In this role, she helps lead initiatives that help institutions get the most from there use of CampusGroups. Most recently that focus has been on how clients can transition from simple data collection to true data operationalization, ensuring that student life is viewed as essential campus infrastructure.

With nearly a decade of experience in the EdTech space, Nora has contributed to the success of hundreds of institutions across four distinct platforms, including her work with Columbia School of Professional Studies. She is passionate about creating "work smarter" business processes that turn everyday student routines into actionable data to drive retention.

Outside of her professional work, Nora is regularly found at trivia nights, and is always interested in talking about why this is the year the Buffalo Bills will win the Super Bowl. 

Mayra Olivares-Urueta, Ph.D. leads cross-sector regional strategies across North Texas to increase postsecondary enrollment and completion at the Economic Mobility Center. She brings more than 20 years of experience in community college leadership, student affairs, and enrollment management, including senior executive roles at Tarrant County College and Dallas College. Her work centers on equity-minded practice, student basic needs, and supporting Latinx and parenting students through systems-level change. She has been an active NASPA contributor as a presenter, proposal reviewer, and participant across multiple annual conferences and Community Colleges Institutes.

Darrien Davenport serves as Associate Vice President and Dean of Students at Temple University, where he provides executive leadership for student advocacy, crisis response, conduct, disability resources, basic needs, and behavioral intervention systems. He brings more than 25 years of professional experience, including senior roles at Gettysburg College and York College of Pennsylvania, as well as executive search consulting with WittKieffer. His leadership focuses on access, persistence, and holistic development for first-generation students, students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ students. He holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University.

Brenda Ice leads Residential and Community Living at Brown University, overseeing residential education, housing operations, orientation, Greek Life, graduate housing, and capital planning. She brings more than 25 years of student affairs experience, with prior roles at Scripps College, UC Riverside, and several other institutions. She currently serves on the ACUHO-I Executive Board and co-chairs the Mentoring Committee for the NASPA Black Diaspora Knowledge Community. She earned her M.Ed. from Salisbury University and is completing her Ed.D. at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Chris "Topher" Ndiritu provides strategic leadership for residence education, student conduct, and holistic student development at the University of New Orleans. He began his career in student affairs at the University of Tennessee and has held roles at Davidson College and Old Dominion University, where he also served two terms as Student Body President. He is a NASPA NUFP alumnus, a 2022 NASPA Region III Outstanding New Professional Award recipient, and has been selected as the 2026 Director of the Dungy Leadership Institute. He currently serves as Vice President for Marketing for SACSA.

Dr. Gigi Secuban serves as the vice president for inclusive excellence and belonging at Montgomery College in Rockville, Maryland. She brings more than 25 years of higher education experience, including inaugural vice president roles for inclusive excellence at Texas State University and Ohio University. Previously, Secuban held leadership positions at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, where she oversaw the renovation of the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center, and at the University of Arkansas, where she served as senior associate director for the freshman engineering program, director of the multicultural center, director of student affairs and diversity services in the College of Education and Health Professions, as well as an assistant director of undergraduate admissions. Her work centers on advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB); promoting student success; and fostering campus environments where all individuals are valued, supported, and heard. She has led initiatives focused on cultural and resource centers, inclusive excellence planning, DEIB fundraising and branding, and campus climate assessment. Secuban earned her Doctor of Education in higher education administration, Master of Science in health science, and Bachelor of Arts in psychology—all from the University of Arkansas. A proud 32-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she is a charter member of the Phi Alpha Omega Chapter in Northwest Arkansas.

Dr. C. Spencer Platt is an associate professor of higher education administration at the University of South Carolina. He directs the Community College Leadership Alliance and previously led the university’s Center for Innovation in Higher Education. With more than 20 years of experience in student affairs, community engagement, diversity and equity, and academic affairs, Platt’s research focuses on access and excellence in education, particularly the experiences of underrepresented students, faculty, and staff at predominantly White institutions. He has secured over one million dollars in extramural funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities. His publications include articles in numerous peer-reviewed journals and three books: Multiculturalism in Higher Education: Increasing Access and Improving Equity in the 21st Century (Information Age, 2020); Comprehensive Multicultural Education in the 21st Century: Increasing Access in the Age of Retrenchment (Information Age, 2019); and From Boyhood to Manhood: Deconstructing Black Masculinity Through a Lifespan Continuum (Peter Lang, 2015). Platt regularly presents at national and international conferences, including AERA, ASHE, the International Conference on Doctoral Education, and the International Colloquium on Black Males in Education. He earned a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin, an MS from the University of Dayton, and a BA from the University of South Carolina.

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. Danielle Miller-Schuster serves as Associate Vice President for the Division of Student Affairs at Illinois State University, where she provides leadership for division-wide strategic planning and oversees a broad portfolio of programs, services, and facilities that advance the success and well-being of the Redbird community. Her areas of responsibility include Campus Recreation, Career Services, Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality, Health Promotion and Wellness, Student Counseling Services, Student Health Services, and Student Affairs Assessment and Data Analytics, Advancement and Constituent Relations, and Professional Development and Staff Recognition.

A proud three-time Redbird, Danielle earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science, her master’s degree in College Student Personnel Administration, and her Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Foundations from Illinois State. With more than two decades of experience, she is dedicated to cultivating purposeful programs and services that foster growth, retention, belonging, and institutional excellence. Her leadership philosophy centers on nurturing growth through coaching, building connections through collaboration, and cultivating positive environments that empower staff, inspire innovation, and spark curiosity. 

Danielle is actively engaged with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), where she recently completed a four-year term on the AVP Steering Committee, co-chaired the 2023 AVP Symposium, and served on the faculty for the 2024 and 2025 New AVP Institute. She is currently contributing to volunteer and engagement efforts for the 2026 Annual Conference in Kansas City and is excited to be a member of the 2027 Conference Leadership Committee. 

Danielle lives in Bloomington, Illinois, with her husband, Andy, and their rescue dog, Starlight Louise.

Dr. Don Stansberry is a nationally engaged student affairs leader and higher education executive currently serving as Vice Provost for Student Affairs at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. With more than two decades of progressive leadership experience across multiple institutions, he has built a career centered on student success, belonging, and social mobility.

Throughout his tenure at institutions including Clayton State University, Old Dominion University, Western Illinois University, Towson University, and Defiance College, Dr. Stansberry has led transformative initiatives that strengthen retention, progression, and graduation outcomes. His leadership emphasizes aligning strategy with care—ensuring that budgets, staffing models, assessment practices, and campus partnerships work cohesively to remove barriers and elevate student achievement.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Stansberry is deeply committed to expanding access and opportunity for underserved and historically marginalized students. His leadership philosophy centers on asking bold questions, challenging assumptions, and helping teams envision what “could be” rather than settling for what has always been.

Known for his energy, creativity, and brand-forward leadership style, Dr. Stansberry brings both strategic vision and authentic connection to his work—championing environments where students, staff, and institutions can thrive. 

Dr. Don Stansberry earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Education Specialist Degree from Old Dominion University. He completed his Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Education in College Student Personnel at Ohio University

Jeff Brown currently serves as the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at American University in Washington D.C. In this role he provides leadership for key departments that support the care and well-being of the student body including the Office of the Dean of Students, Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the Student Health Center, the Center for Well-Being and Psychological Services and International Student and Scholar Services. He also serves in critical roles with crisis management, threat assessment, student activism support and neighborhood/off campus relations on the AU campus. 

Prior to this role, Jeff served for four years as the Dean of Students. In that role he has responsibility for undergraduate and graduate student care, support, and advocacy. He also served as the chief student conduct officer for the University. Jeff had responsibility on the AU campus for inclusion support, neighborhood relations, crisis management and multiple retention initiatives. 

Prior to his move to American University seven years ago, he worked at Clemson University for 19 years serving in a variety of capacities, most recently as the Associate Dean of Students where he over saw all orientation and transition programs, parent/family programs and support, the Student Veteran Resource Center, retention programs for underrepresented students and extended orientation programs. He also has extensive experience working in residence life and fraternity and sorority life. 

Originally from the Chicago area, Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations & Communications from Bradley University and a Master of Education in Student Affairs Administration from Clemson University. Jeff has held multiple leadership roles with NASPA, ACPA, and NODA.  Currently Jeff is serving as the Past-President for NODA after serving as a General Board Member and the Lead Faculty for the Orientation Professionals Institute (OPI)  for six years.  

Dr. Steve D. Mobley, Jr.’s scholarship focuses on the contemporary placement of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Particularly, his research underscores the understudied facets of HBCU communities including issues surrounding race, social class, and student sexuality. He earned his B.A. in Communication & Culture from Howard University. Upon graduating from Howard, he completed his Master’s in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania and earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of Maryland.

Dr. Mobley, Jr. also has had extensive experience in the fields of Higher Education and Student Affairs. Prior to him beginning his career as an academic, he served as Associate Director of the undergraduate program at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. He also held appointments in academic affairs at the University of Maryland and taught courses in The College of Education, Undergraduate Studies, and the Academic Achievement Programs (A TRiO Initiative).

His scholarly work has also garnered national attention. Dr. Mobley, Jr. was named a 2022 Diverse: Issues In Higher Education Emerging Scholar, and a 2021 College Student Educators International (ACPA) Emerging Scholar-Designee Awardee. He is also the recipient of the 2018 Article of the Year Award from the American Educational Research Association’s (AERA) Queer Studies Special Interest Group (SIG), 2019 College Student Educators International (ACPA) Coalition on Men & Masculinities Tracy Davis Emerging Research Award, and the 2019 American College Personnel Association’s (ACPA) Coalition of Sexuality and Gender Identities (CSGI) Research Recognition Award.

Dr. Mobley, Jr.’s scholarship has also been published in Teachers College Record, The Journal of Higher Education, The Journal of Homosexuality, The Urban Review, the Journal of College Student Retention: Research, Theory & Practice, and the International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education.

Bob McCormick was named vice president for Information Services in 2012, and he leads the central IT team at DePaul University in Chicago. McCormick has led several major projects at DePaul, including the replacement of the university’s core public website, the implementation of a collocated data center, the implementation of stakeholder portals and installation of several key student advising systems, and agentic AI for Financial Aid staff.

Dale Vander Wall is a Higher Education Industry Advisor at Salesforce where he works with college and university leaders to help them understand the value of the Salesforce platform for higher education. Before joining Salesforce in 2021, Dale held a number of leadership positions during his 30-year career at the University of Maryland, College Park. In his last role as Assistant Dean and COO of the Robert H. Smith School of Business, Dale directed strategic operations and led a comprehensive Salesforce implementation focused on recruitment, admissions, program management, career services, and marketing. He was also instrumental in getting the campus to adopt Salesforce as its campus-wide CRM and helped support the university’s deployment of its Salesforce student success solution for students and the academic advising community.

Dr. Edward F. Martinez is the Founder and Principal of Level Up Consulting and Strategies, LLC, where he partners with leaders and organizations to strengthen their purpose, presence, and performance. Drawing on more than three decades of experience across community colleges, private institutions, residential and specialized higher education settings, Dr. Martinez provides executive coaching, inclusive excellence strategies, and transformative leadership development experiences that empower professionals and organizations to thrive. A nationally recognized thought leader, Dr. Martinez serves on the NASPA Foundation Board, is a SUNY Hispanic Leadership Fellow, and is a NASPA Pillar of the Profession Award recipient. In addition to his consulting and national leadership roles, he serves as the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Suffolk County Community College, functioning as the Senior Student Affairs Officer for the Ammerman Campus. 

For the past three years, Eddie Martinez has been actively engaged in advancing conversations about artificial intelligence in higher education, serving as both a presenter and panelist at NASPA Annual Conferences. Prior to its publication in April 2026, Eddie reviewed AI with Intention: The Leadership Guide for Higher Education, authored by Dr. Claire L. Brady, and provided a written endorsement of the book.

Mayra Olivares-Urueta, Ph.D. leads cross-sector regional strategies across North Texas to increase postsecondary enrollment and completion at the Economic Mobility Center. She brings more than 20 years of experience in community college leadership, student affairs, and enrollment management, including senior executive roles at Tarrant County College and Dallas College. Her work centers on equity-minded practice, student basic needs, and supporting Latinx and parenting students through systems-level change. She has been an active NASPA contributor as a presenter, proposal reviewer, and participant across multiple annual conferences and Community Colleges Institutes.

Dr. Jhenai Chandler is Vice President for Research, Policy, and Student Success at NASPA, where she leads work focused on student success, campus well-being, and creating conditions that help students thrive. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in higher education, research, policy, and student affairs, she advocates for evidence-based approaches to student safety, health, and belonging. A first-generation college graduate and former parenting student, Dr. Chandler understands firsthand the transformative power of higher education. As the parent of a current college student, she is especially passionate about ensuring campuses are places where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to speak up for themselves and others.

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.

Dr. Jhenai Chandler is Vice President for Research, Policy, and Student Success at NASPA, where she leads work focused on student success, campus well-being, and creating conditions that help students thrive. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in higher education, research, policy, and student affairs, she advocates for evidence-based approaches to student safety, health, and belonging. A first-generation college graduate and former parenting student, Dr. Chandler understands firsthand the transformative power of higher education. As the parent of a current college student, she is especially passionate about ensuring campuses are places where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to speak up for themselves and others.

With over 10 years of experience in student affairs, Dr. Tyger is passionate about creating inclusive and supportive campus communities that empower students to thrive. Currently serving as the Assistant Vice President for Student Life at the University of Florida, James oversees the Student Engagement Team, which includes the offices for Campus Engagement, Community and belonging, Sorority and fraternity Life, and Student Legal Services. 

Dr. Tyger is a proud double Gator, having earned both a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and a J.D. from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. He also holds a Master of Education from Vanderbilt University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management from Virginia Tech. 

In addition to his role at the University of Florida, Dr. Tyger is the Director-elect for the Public Policy Division of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and serves on the Virginia Tech Student Affairs Advisory Council. 

Dr. Penny Rue is a Professional Certified Executive Leadership Coach and Consultant affiliated with the Association of Governing Boards. She is also Vice President and University Professor Emeritus at Wake Forest University, where she is a Research Professor for the Department of Counseling. She served as the Vice President for Campus Life and Professor of Counseling at Wake Forest University from 2013 to 2022, where she had broad responsibility for the well-being and safety of students and their education outside the classroom. Dr. Rue previously served for six years as Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of California San Diego, and as a member of the Student Affairs Council for the University of California system.She served for eight years as Dean of Students at the University of Virginia. She served for twelve years in progressively responsible leadership roles at Georgetown University. She is nationally known for her creative leadership in strengthening campus communities,

leading for belonging, well-being and inclusion, and effective enterprise risk management. Earlier in her career, she held posts at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Maryland. Dr. Rue obtained her Doctorate in Counseling and Personnel Services from the University of Maryland, where her dissertation research focused on a conceptual study of the community on the college campus. She has a Master’s degree in student personnel services from The Ohio State University, from which she received the Maude Stewart Outstanding Alumna Award in 2011, and an A.B. Magna cum laude in English and Religion from Duke University. In 2011, she was named a Pillar of the Profession by the NASPA Foundation. A longtime NASPA Volunteer, in March 2017, she began a three-year term serving as Chair-elect, Chair, and Past Chair of the NASPA Board of Directors, which concluded in 2020. Outside of work, she loves swimming, yoga, gardening, and cats.

Looking for ways to continue to increase student engagement at your institution? 

Join this session for insights on trends and hear about ways that other institutions have solved the student engagement challenge. We’ll cover overarching trends we’re seeing in student engagement, how technology is shifting strategies, and ways that higher education institutions are using technology to take engagement to the next level. 

Leave the webinar with ideas that you can implement at your institution to enhance the student experience, learn how institutions continue to get students’ attention, and ways to encourage engagement throughout the year. 

Joining the team in July 2021, Jack serves as the event management and training coordinator. Within his role, Jack serves as the primary advisor to the Activities Board, while also assisting with other large-scale campus events and initiatives. He also aids student organizations through their development and event planning. Jack earned a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky.

Paige Cook serves as the Associate Director of Student Activities and Greek Life at Gettysburg College. In her professional role, Paige is responsible for the primary oversight of Gettysburg College’s CampusGroups platform, the large-scale social programming on campus, the Multicultural Greek Council, and more. Outside of the workplace, she enjoys drawing, reading, and spending time with her cats!

With over 25 years dedicated to the higher education technology industry, Christine McCormick Hall, M.Ed., has a proven track record of success working with colleges and universities. Holding an M.Ed. in Student Affairs, she brings a deep understanding of the student experience to her role as VP of Sales, Americas at Ready Education. She is passionate about leveraging technology to drive meaningful student engagement and institutional success.