Student Affairs NOW

In this origin story, Dr. Brooks shares his inspirational journey to the professoriate. Filled with triumphs as well as tragedies, his story reminds us of the importance of making your own path - one step at a time. The post Here’s the Story: “Make Your Path by Walking” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In the fifth episode of Current Campus Context, Heather Shea is joined by experts Dr. Felecia Commodore and Dr. Crystal Garcia to discuss the latest challenges facing higher education. They examine the growing threats to international students, including detention, deportation, and forced self-deportation, and the role of universities in protecting them. The conversation also explores faculty fears around academic freedom, the risks of speaking out in today’s climate, and the real dangers—beyond job loss—that educators face. Finally, they highlight the power of labor unions as a force for collective action against political and financial attacks on higher ed. The post Current Campus Context: Deportations, Faculty Voice, & Coalitions appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In this episode of Student Affairs Now, we're exploring the career shift from student affairs to alumni affairs with three panelists who have made the transition themselves: Josh Leidy, Rachel Clark, and Jessica Lee. How do student affairs skills translate to engaging alumni? What challenges and opportunities come with the shift? And what should student affairs professionals know if they're considering a move into alumni engagement? Join us as we discuss the connections between student and alumni experiences, the evolving landscape of alumni affairs, and how institutions can better integrate alumni into the student journey. We’ll also unpack common misconceptions, surprising insights, and the role of technology in shaping alumni engagement. Whether you're curious about this career path or looking for ways to strengthen student-to-alumni connections, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. The post From Student Affairs to Alumni Affairs appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Dr. Felecia Commodore and Dr. Demetri Morgan join host Heather Shea to discuss the latest threats to higher education and what comes next. This episode was recorded at 5:11 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 27th.... The post Current Campus Context: Federal Student Aid, Institutional Autonomy & Associations’ Push Back appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

Dr. Megan Gerhardt, a leadership professor at Miami University and lead author of Gentelligence, transforms how we view workplace intergenerational dynamics. She emphasizes shifting from viewing generational differences as tensions to opportunities for collaboration. Gerhardt discusses practical strategies to foster open communication, respect diverse viewpoints, and adapt feedback methods to support younger employees. Additionally, she highlights the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace and encourages leaders to challenge established norms for a more inclusive work environment.

In this episode (recorded at 5:08 p.m. on March 20), Dr. OiYan Poon and Dr. Crystal Garcia join Dr. Heather Shea to discuss the executive order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, the politicization of federal funding, and rising barriers for international students and scholars. The post Current Campus Context: Exec. Order Dismantling the Dept. of Education, Weaponizing Federal Funding, International Students & Scholars appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In this discussion, JT Snipes, an Associate Professor and Chair at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, shares his journey through the trials of early academia. He candidly explores the weight of feedback and its impact on his teaching career. An unexpected encounter serves as a turning point, reminding him of the value in embracing personal growth. Snipes highlights the importance of community support among educators and students to navigate the emotional challenges of academic life, ultimately showcasing the power of vulnerability and resilience.

It’s a story about love, loss, and a beautiful friendship between two higher ed professionals and what it is like for one to move on after the loss of the other. The post Here’s the Story: “Good Grief” appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

In this week’s rapid-response episode, Dr. Heather Shea is joined by Drs. Felecia Commodore and Brendan Cantwell to break down the latest developments in higher education policy and politics. They discuss the U.S. Department of... The post Current Campus Context: Education Cuts, Student Detainment, and the Politics of Funding appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.

While attending the 2025 ACPA Conference in Long Beach, California, host Glenn DeGuzman invited random attendees to come in front of the camera and answer the following question: "What topic or issue is very important to you now and that you want to engage with more in student affairs?” The myriad of responses is a reminder of the diversity of people, places, and positions that make up our profession. The post “What’s Important to Us?” – Reflections from listeners at ACPA 2025 appeared first on Student Affairs NOW.