2024 Conference Schedule
8:15 - 9:15 am - Check In, Networking, Sponsor Meet & Greet
GRAND BALLROOM
*Complimentary Breakfast Served in the Farmer’s Daughter
9:15 am - Welcome & Recognition
GRAND BALLROOM
9:30 am - Keynote Address
GRAND BALLROOM
10:40 am - Block 1
VARIOUS ROOMS
11:50 am - Lunch, Networking, Service Project
GRAND BALLROOM
12:50 pm - Block 2
VARIOUS ROOMS
2:00 pm - Block 3
VARIOUS ROOMS
3:00-5:00 pm - Networking Happy Hour, Service Project Continues
*Cash Bar
FARMER’S DAUGHTER BAR
#DVSAC1974
2024 Keynote Address:
Geoffrey Mock, JD
Assoc. Director, Government Relations
Lehigh University
Advocate for your Future!
This conversation will discuss the roots of advocacy, the legislative process and the most effective ways to be an advocate to a cause that is important to each individual. Geoffrey will be giving an overview of his background in advocacy and some of the issues he has fought for. The overall message will be how every student, faculty, staff, or normal citizen can be effective in areas they care about by advocating for change and policies that further their cause.
2024 Program Descriptions
Programming Block One: 10:40-11:40 AM
An Community Building Approach to Creating Your Divisional Mission and Vision Statement
Session Location: Hickory
Abstract: This session covers the recent journey of the Jefferson-East Falls Division of Student Life and their creation of a new Mission and Vision Statement. The chosen methodology was the organizational change model, Appreciative Inquiry. Workshop attendees will understand the basic concepts, principles, theories and terminology of Appreciative Inquiry. Attendees will also understand the possibilities of applying Appreciative Inquiry methodology and process to organizational change initiatives. In addition, attendees will explore practical application of Appreciative Inquiry theory in their organizations.
Presented By: Timothy Butler, Associate Dean of Students, Thomas Jefferson University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Assessment, Evaluation & Research, Leadership, Organizational and Human Resources, Personal and Ethical Foundations, Values, Philosophy and History
Target Audience: Any/All levels
Three Letters That Transform Student Development
Session Location: Cherry
Abstract: One out of six students will drop out of school before the start of their second semester and 45% show no significant gains in learning after the first TWO YEARS! We’ve got work to do to spread a new message about the importance of getting involved and being engaged, what the college experience really looks like, and how to be a successful college student from day one! And it’s not just the students that will benefit, professionals will be able to transform their workplace environment and collaboration with just three letters. You’ll be surprised at the simplicity and excited by the depth of this concept. <Cue theme music.>
Presented By: Joe Urbanski, Managing Director, Collegiate Empowerment
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Leadership, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Pieces into Place: Delivering Information to First-Generation Students Effectively
Session Location: Pine
Abstract: While defining “first-generation student” may be complicated, understanding and addressing their needs can be even more so. Using a human information behavior perspective, this session will identify where first-generation students look for information and highlight opportunities for student development professionals to make themselves accessible to these students. Attendees will learn to anticipate and accommodate the needs of first-generation students and will be able to apply this knowledge in their own work.
Presented By: Abigail Brooke, Assistant Director of the Center for Career Development, Eastern University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Social Justice and Inclusion, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Any/All levels
“It didn’t feel like home”: Transitioning from an HBCU to a PWI
Session Location: Birch
Abstract: This presentation is based on insights of student affairs professionals who have transitioned from attending or working in an HBCU to a PWI. Themes presented will address belonging, diversity and inclusion, and student and employee support. Learning objectives include: To learn about the common challenges that attend transition from an HBCU to a PWI; to identify both similar and different issues at other Minority Serving Institutions; and to strategize possible sources of support which student affairs professionals can put in place to ease this transition, for both students and staff.
Presented By: Orkideh Mohajeri, West Chester University, Raekwon Bates, West Chester University, Gabe Beard, West Chester University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Social Justice and Inclusion, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Keynote Follow Up Session
Session Location: Oak
Abstract: Continue the conversation with Keynote speaker Geoffrey Mock, Lehigh University.
Presented By: Geoffrey Mock, Lehigh University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Social Justice and Inclusion, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Any/All levels
Lunch and Networking Session:
11:50 AM to 12:40 PM
Programming Block 2: 12:50-1:50 PM
Rebuilding a Culture of Connection in the Widening Skills Gap
Session Location: Hickory
Abstract: The rapidly evolving job market requires our students exit higher education with a plethora of complex skills; however, the fundamentals don’t go by the wayside. Our traditional educational models aren’t cutting it— our students are not deserving of run-of-the-mill experiences. This dialogue will focus on leveraging technology to foster the human connection and empower students in championing their higher education experience.
Participants will be able to: identify disconnections between students & professionals, brainstorm collaborative ways to address the skills gap, & identify the role of identity in the skills gap.
Presented By: Jaclyn Rodick, Graduate Assistant, Career Development Center, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Aaron Springer, Graduate Assistant, Military & Veterans Services, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Assessment, Evaluation & Research, Personal and Ethical Foundations, Social Justice and Inclusion, Student Learning & Development, Technology
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Boundaries are NON-negotiable
Session Location: Cherry
Abstract: This presentation delves into the aspect of setting boundaries when higher ed administrators work with students. The minefield of academia demands a dynamic understanding of your personal boundaries to ensure a productive and healthy relationship weather or night you work 9-5 or odd hours. Furthermore, in this presentation discusses practical strategies for effectively setting and maintaining boundaries. These boundaries are focused on an unpublished paper written based on the experience and struggles of myself and peers and the core 5 tips we found that helps.
Presented By: MyKella Mitchell, Manager of EDI, Communications, and Outreach, Princeton University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Leadership, Personal and Ethical Foundations
Target Audience: Any/all levels
Hot Topics in Student Affairs: Practical Tips for Identifying and Managing Risk
Session Location: Pine
Abstract: This presentation makes the case that every student affairs employee's job involves identifying and managing risk -- even if they do not realize it. Participants will gain a strong understanding of the legal underpinnings of several hot topics in higher education, including accommodating students with disabilities; supporting students with mental health challenges; the legal landscape for DEI; and maintaining student privacy, to help them "issue spot" in their day-to-day work. Practical tips for managing risk will follow, including general best practices; effective policy management; and thoughtful use of communications and technology.
Presented By: Jesse Krohn, Associate, Higher Education Industry Group, Saul Ewing LLP
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Law, Policy & Governance, Organizational and Human Resources, Social Justice and Inclusion
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Housing and Transition Challenges of Current International Students in the U.S.
Session Location: Oak
Abstract: The housing crisis among U.S. HEIs is amplified in the case of international students who seek stable, affordable and safe housing in a country that’s new to them. Recognizing that housing plays a vital role in student success, this workshop will address 3 major housing and transition challenges current international students face–Safety & Racism, Financial Constraints, and Support Services.
Learning Outcomes:
Understand the current challenges International Students face, that needs student-centered support.
Critically analyze the common practices in various U.S. HEIs around housing and transition support for International Students.
Presented By: Matheeha Majeeth, West Chester University, Mary Taale, West Chester University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Social Justice and Inclusion
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Learn Today, Lead Tomorrow - Real Time Assessment
Session Location: Birch
Abstract: This session will focus on identifying four types of assessments and using student programming as a means to collect real-time data to influence learning objectives and academic outcomes. The presentation will also feature graduate and undergraduate students giving reflections on their experience and the impact it has had on their educational trajectory.
Presented By: Marques Johnson, Associate Dean of Students, Stockton University , Mohammed Jaradat, Graduate Coordinator, Stockton University, Gavin MacNatt, Residential Scholar, Stockton University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Assessment, Evaluation & Research, Leadership, Social Justice and Inclusion, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Graduate students, New professionals
Programming Block 3: 2:00-3:00 PM
Who Trains the Trainers? Understanding the Importance of Student Employee Supervision
Session Location: Hickory
Abstract: Declining retention and completion rates plague higher education, and yet many institutions may be overlooking a powerful “solution”! Recent research has found that on-campus student employment increases institutional affinity, while supporting students’ success and retention. However, if staff are not trained to supervise student employees effectively, these benefits could be lost, and with potentially harmful effects. Join us to consider the critical role that supervisors occupy in the campus landscape & discuss ways to leverage their influence for the betterment of students, staff, and their institutions.
Presented By: Dr. Kim Celano, Senior Associate Director, Professional Development and Continuing Education, Temple University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Organizational and Human Resources
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
Walking the Legal Higher Ed Tightrope: The Delicate Balance Between Lawsuits vs. Care & Support
Session Location: Cherry
Abstract: Most Student Affairs professionals join the field with passionate and focused motivation for helping students successfully navigate their educational journeys. In today’s world, however, compliance and legal obligations create a challenging landscape, sometimes requiring dedicated staff to pause from their natural care-taking instincts. Legal peril is just one comment, one email, one inadvertent omission away, and there is little relief on the horizon. Join this interactive discussion to find that delicate balance between caring for our students and avoiding the dreaded call from Legal Counsel.
Presented By: Kimberly Taylor, Bi-College Title IX Coordinator, Haverford & Bryn Mawr Colleges
Maureen Holland, Partner, Cozen O’Connor, John McKnight, Dean of the College, Haverford College
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Law, Policy & Governance, Leadership, Social Justice and Inclusion
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
At the Crossroads...Balancing Personal & Professional Ethics
Session Location: Pine
Abstract: What do we do when our personal and professional ethics collide? It happens, but what we do when we have that experience is what matters. In the changing world and culture of higher education, it happens and is happening more often. Balancing our ethics while advocating for change, supporting our students, and protecting ourselves is a balancing act that can take its toll on us. Come join us as we talk about navigating the challenges and how to protect ourselves (mentally and emotionally) as we navigate the changing landscape of higher education.
Presented By: Dr. Amy Porter, Assistant Dean of Students/Title IX Coordinator, Cedar Crest College, Kevin Gaughenbaugh, Assistant Registrar, Northampton Community College
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Personal and Ethical Foundations
Target Audience: Graduate students, New professionals, Mid-level professionals
A Collaborative Approach: Designing and Implementing a Comprehensive Retention Plan through Campus Partnerships and a First-Year Experience Focus
Session Location: Oak
Abstract: College can be a time of change, exploration, and even instability as students adjust to new experiences, opportunities, and challenges. While many institutions have attempted to address the transition, additional efforts are still needed. The session will focus on designing and implementing a comprehensive retention plan through campus partnerships. Attendees will learn: Gwynedd Mercy University’s comprehensive retention plan design, achievements, setbacks, lessons learned through the process, and potential strategies or areas to explore at their own institutions.
Presented By: Kim Cooney, Ed.D., Assistant Dean of Student Success and First Year Initiatives, Gwynedd Mercy University, Meredith Hoch, Ed.D., Dean of Student Success, Gwynedd Mercy University
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Assessment, Evaluation & Research, Leadership, Student Learning & Development
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
The Opportunities of Transition
Session Location: Birch
Abstract: My session will be about the lessons I have learned in leadership, adaptability, and versatility in my professional life and my personal life working at a liberal arts college living in a small town with my background attending big public higher education institutions and living in cities. My outcomes are that one can seek out new opportunities to lead and build community in smaller places, adapt to their surroundings and living environment, and continue to build on those skills as they go through their career, and finally, one's values and principles in life can influence their own experiences and career choices, and vice versa.
Presented By: Evan Weinstein, Area Coordinator for Residence Life, Westminster College
NASPA/ACPA Competency: Advising & Supporting, Leadership, Personal and Ethical Foundations, Student Learning & Development, Values, Philosophy and History
Target Audience: Any/All Levels
