Student Affairs NOW

As the federal government shutdown continues, colleges and universities are grappling with its immediate effects on students and operations. Meanwhile, the proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence” is sparking debate about federal influence over campus policies and values. This episode explores how funding, freedom, and inclusion intersect in today’s political climate—and how student affairs professionals are helping students and institutions navigate these challenges. The post Current Campus Context: Shutdowns and Showdowns in Higher Ed appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Dr. Jill Bassett-Cameron, Senior Equity and Inclusion Officer at Central Connecticut State University, dives into vicarious trauma in helping professions. She distinguishes it from burnout and highlights how daily exposure can affect student affairs professionals. Jill discusses tools from other fields that higher education lacks, shares protective practices like venting and sensory rituals, and advocates for curriculum changes. Finally, she reframes the cost of caring as a strength, empowering practitioners to embrace their experiences with pride.

A student affairs professional navigating the challenges of living and working with long COVID is learning to reimagine both leadership and life. Balancing the demands of a high-energy, people-centered field with the unpredictability of chronic illness requires new rhythms of care, patience, and adaptability. This journey is less about returning to “normal” and more about creating a sustainable way forward—leading with vulnerability, modeling resilience, and redefining success through balance, boundaries, and community. The post Here’s the Story: “Navigating Work-Life with Long Covid” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In this episode, we learn of a professional journey done with humbly. The importance of valuing feedback as wisdom and an opportunity to grow in all phases of life. The post Here’s the Story: “The Overflow” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Kathleen Fitzpatrick, a University Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University and an expert in digital humanities, shares insights from her books on generous thinking and leadership. She critiques competitive individualism and promotes collaboration in scholarship. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of formative peer review and outlines tools for generous leadership, particularly during crises like COVID-19. The conversation highlights the necessity of transparency, making people feel seen, and practicing generosity as a continuous commitment.

In this special episode of Student Affairs NOW, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ACPA Coalition for Disability and 35 years since the passage of the ADA. Panelists Erin Mayo, Kat Hurley, Mike Kutnak, Antonia De Michiel, and Spencer Scruggs join us to discuss the past, present, and future of disability in student affairs and higher education. From challenging ableism to promoting universal design and inclusive practice, this conversation is a call to deepen our collective commitment to access and equity for all. The post Reflections and Forward Momentum: 25 Years of the ACPA Coalition for Disability & 35 Years of the ADA appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In this September episode of Current Campus Context, host Heather Shea welcomes back Dr. Crystal Garcia and Dr. Brendan Cantwell for a timely conversation on the state of higher education. The discussion begins with reintroductions and updates on their current research projects, then turns to how scholars and practitioners can separate meaningful policy “signals” from distracting “noise” in today’s overwhelming news cycle. Together, they highlight underreported developments from the past month, consider what gives them hope as the academic year unfolds, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities shaping the months ahead — from looming federal deadlines to long-term structural shifts in higher education. The post Current Campus Context: Making Sense of the Signals Amid the Noise appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

W. Scott Lewis recounts a moment as a Vice President for Student Affairs when his role unexpectedly required hostage negotiation skills to support a student in crisis. Surrounded by FBI agents and campus police, Scott’s decisions were risky, maybe a little lucky, and deeply human—yet ones he’d make again in service to his students. Scott tells this story masterfully, balancing the real tension with his legendary sense of humor, underscoring the weight of leadership in Student Affairs. The post Here’s the Story: “One or None: Difficult Decisions I Would Make Again” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

No matter where he goes, the constant question is raised, "How did you get that job?". Finding the perfect higher education adjacent role is a unique and intentional journey. Learn as Paul Brown shares his journey on how he found joy at Roompact. The post Here’s the Story: “What Everyone Wants To Know: How I Got My Job” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Join Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington, a leader in social justice training, Becky Martinez, a consultant committed to equity, and Rev. Sam Offer from the Washington Consulting Group as they navigate the complex terrain of DEIB in higher education. They discuss the emotional toll on DEIB professionals, the need for authentic practices amidst political pushback, and the importance of self-care and coalition-building. Their insights highlight the necessity of supportive structures and well-being for those advocating for marginalized voices.