Student Affairs NOW

Dr. Todd Zakrajsek shares with us learnings from the science of learning and his newest book, Essentials of the New Science of Learning. He distills cutting-edge research in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and education to help students optimize their learning through many examples and stories. This conversation is helpful for our own learning, helping others learn, and powerful lessons about the value of struggle and even failure. The post The New Science of Learning appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Cindy Clowner, Dolores Cimini, and Lindsay Mortensen share their insights on the growing issue of gambling among college students. They discuss the evolving landscape driven by technology and highlight the risks of online betting. The experts talk about the necessity of awareness and innovative strategies for prevention and intervention. They emphasize the role of campus professionals in fostering support and addressing the intersection of gambling, mental health, and addiction. Their conversation underscores the importance of collaboration in creating safer environments for students.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Felecia Commodore, an expert on leadership in education, Dr. Brendan Cantwell, who focuses on higher education policy, and Dr. Demetri L. Morgan, specializing in student activism, tackle the pressing issues in higher ed today. They reflect on recent governance changes and the accountability needed for underrepresented communities. The trio delves into funding challenges, political dynamics affecting international students, and evolving student expectations, emphasizing collaboration and dialogue among university leaders.

In a classic "student affairs" moment, a young professional steps up to coach a scrappy women’s club soccer team rather than let their season be canceled. They only scored one point all year—but what they gained in confidence, community, and self-advocacy was a championship of its own. The post Here’s the Story: “Unstoppable Confidence” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

An experienced student affairs professional reflects on how career “derailments” and “stagnant seasons” turned out to be pivotal to her growth, not signs of failure. In a moving twist, she finds unexpected joy and support from former students—proof that the seeds she planted long ago blossomed right when she needed them most. The post Here’s the Story: “Roots and Returns” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Recent changes to college sports are monumental for athletics, athletes, and all of higher education. Shifts in name, image, and likeness (NIL), revenue sharing, unionization, transfer portal, TV money and conference realignment, and more are each having a massive impact and collectively will leave college sports unrecognizable to many and incredibly complex to navigate for all involved. Join four experts as they explain these changes, discuss the implications, and give us an idea of what is ahead for us all. The post Navigating the Changing Landscape of College Athletics appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Dr. Harold Cheatham is a scholar, mentor, Dean, and 56th president of ACPA, and the first African American man to serve in that role. In this conversation, he reflects on the themes of serendipity and intrusive advising throughout his professional journey. He also shares his humility, commitment to service, and getting stuff done. The post Student Affairs Legends Then & Now:  Harold Cheatham appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Join Dr. Zach Mercurio, a Senior Research and Teaching Fellow at Colorado State University, as he delves into the vital concept of 'mattering' in our lives and workplaces. He emphasizes the difference between mattering and merely belonging, detailing its impact on employee engagement and well-being. Zach offers a practical framework with three key practices: noticing, affirming, and needing. He shares personal stories illustrating how fostering meaningful connections can combat feelings of invisibility and create a culture of significance that transforms organizations.

Join Stephanie Bannister, a leader in supporting first-gen students, Mary Fugate, an expert in data analytics, and Dr. Amy Goodburn, a champion for equity in education. They discuss how defining first-gen status shapes data collection. The guests emphasize the importance of data transparency in crafting better student support systems. They also explore the role of AI in uncovering insights and the power of collaboration among institutions. With a focus on community resilience, they inspire actionable change for first-generation students.

While it is hard to think about the "dark place" that COVID holds in our collective heart, we are remiss if we do not acknowledge the great work that was done. Ardell Sanders tells a story about lessons learned and victories won during that tough time. The post Here’s the Story: “It Can’t Be About Me” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.